QR Codes and Augmented Reality

The I-Nigma (http://www.i-nigma.com/CreateBarcodes.html) and QR Code Monkey (http://www.qrcode-monkey.com/)  sites both are very simple to use to create QR codes for use online or on print material.  On both, you simply enter the url of the site you would like to link to, hit create, and then download the QR code as a .png file.  From there, you can put the file anywhere you like.

One way I would use QR codes in the library would be during open house for parent and student information.  The QR code would link to the library website that has all the necessary information for students using the library in the upcoming school year. Another way I would use QR codes is for links to book trailers. Book trailers are a fun way to introduce books to students in a very engaging way.

Another QR code site allows you to put an audio message with it.  Check out mine below:

My first experience with augmented reality was watching the short TEDtalk video linked on blackboard.  I was blown away. This new technology is so neat and my head is spinning with the implications of what it can do.  I downloaded the Aurasma app on my iPhone and then went online to find sites that had “auras” to use.  I found a site that had a math worksheet where when you hovered over it with the app, a tutorial came on.  I thought that was a great idea for use in the classroom.

In the library, one way I would use augmented reality is similar to what I would do with QR codes, but using a book cover to link to the book trailer video.  Or maybe it would have a video of the book author reading a chapter of the book, or doing an interview about the book. It could also be used to help students figure things out.  In a high school library, many students are in and out and can’t necessarily get individual assistance on how to find something, such as a reference book.  With Aurasma, the student could gain access to a video tutorial of how to find what they need.