THE LEARNING LIBRARY

Ah, orientation. That time of year when I get to meet all of our incoming students and spend hours telling them all sorts of fun facts about the library, most of which they'll forget ten seconds after they walk out the door.  A few years ago, I decided to make the switch to a more student-centered orientation with a scavenger hunt.  However, I found that while the students were more engaged, a lot of them still didn't have the skills (or desire) to search out the answers on their own.  I wanted to find a way to make the hunt for answers more engaging, so I decided to incorporate QR codes.  Rather than placing signs around the room with answers, students are directed to find various QR codes throughout the library, and to scan them with an iPad.  Each QR code links to a picture, video, or website that provides an answer for the hunt.  Not only did the hunt go much more smoothly, but the students have seemed far more engaged and interested in actually looking for the answers.  I've gone on to use QR codes throughout the library to provide more information for students about books - the codes link to online summaries, reviews, and trailers.

 

There are a variety of QR code creators available online.  One thing I learned the hard way is to make sure that the creator you are using does not create QR codes that expire after a certain number of days or scans.  You want to make sure that any limits placed on the code will not interfere with the project you're working on.  Many QR code sites are free, but offer upgrades for a fee.  The one I use most frequently is QR Stuff.  I find the site simple to use and enough for my limited needs.