Exploring the use of QR Codes as a learning technology

A QR (Quick Response) Code is a two dimensional barcode. Which when scanned on a mobile phone will enable you to complete a task. The most common tasks include accessing a web resource, sending a pre-written SMS or accessing more text information. The unique selling point is they enable the mobile learner to effectively and efficiently connect to a electronic resource or activity from a physical object.There has been growing interest in how QR codes might be used to enhance the learning experience in UK HE/FE. Many of these ideas and discussions are being coordinated through a JISC Innovation Grant led by the University of Bath. This paper will develop a number of user case scenarios based on the dreams generated at the initial Ideas Factory Workshops which ran at 6 HE/FE institutions during January 2009 (http://blogs.bath.ac.uk/qrcode). Some of the dreams include using QR Codes in Student Induction, accessing just in time learning materials in lectures, and closing the feedback loop for design students at their end of a year design show.After exposing these dreams the discussion will turn to "how to ensure these dreams become a reality?" This will be informed by the lessons learnt from the implementation at the University of Bath, and the results from a student survey (sample = 1800) on QR Code awareness and habits (Ramsden & Jordan (2009)). For instance, 1 in 10 students were aware of QR Codes but only 1 in 20 had accessed one. So given this exposure to QR codes how do we implement them at the institutional level to ensure success? The outcome is a scalable and sustainable support and development model where responsibilities for key central and local support teams are designed in. This model includes the coordination of face to face events, online events and the emergence of the QR Code Information Hub (http://bath.ac.uk/barcodes). It will be suggested that this current solution is not perfect. However, through listening to users and implementing through cross-institutional teams, including the Students' Union it will lay the foundations for future success.