Kid QR Codes

Free QR Code Generator: KAYWA is a fantastic tool for the classroom. It's super easy to use! Kids simply insert a url, text, phone number, or sms in a box to generate a QR code for free!  Students can embed their QR code or download it as an image, cut it out, and paste it wherever they want around the classroom! Kids have a blast scanning QR codes! 

Ways to use QR Codes with Kids:

1. Teachers can set up various learning stations around the classroom with different codes. Children can scan the code to take them to a variety of online activities. What's great about using codes is that students don't have to remember a website address. QR codes make access to online games and learning activities quick and easy. Students can use an ipad to scan the code and access the games. All you need is an app, such as i-nigma.  

2. Learning badges - If students do really well on a spelling test, they can scan a code and be awarded a spelling badge. Many people would say why bother, just give the students a sticker or a stamp! However, I think the process of scanning and earning a surprise badge is much more exciting than earning a sticker! 

3. Scavenger hunts - Students can work in teams, scan the codes (which would be set up at different stations or locations), and receive a clue that will lead them to the next destination. iLearn Technology demonstrates how to conduct a QR code scavenger hunt. If you've never visited this site you must! It has so many ways to implement technology into your classroom. It is always up to date on the newest web 2.0 tools as well. 

4. Inside the Classroom Outside the Box had the idea of putting QR codes on books in the classroom. Each student created a QR code for a book they read. The QR Code revealed their  recommendation for the book. They even made mini book trailers using iMovie! Check out the site for more QR code ideas!

5. Sample work -  you can also create codes for students who would like to see a good example of work. If they are questioning a project assignment or need a few ideas, they can scan the code to view examples of excellent work.

6. QR code generator makes the classroom greener. Teachers can post instructions to an assignment and notes, without wasting paper. 


Overall, QR codes make access to online links quick and efficient. Also, they make learning fun! Students are used to traditional teaching methods of earning a sticker or a happy face when they produce good work. They have also been exposed to scavenger hunts that lead them from clue to clue written on a strip of paper or a post-it note. QR codes make activities more interesting. Moreover, if you are working with pre-readers, QR codes are more universal for students who are struggling with reading. A QR code will take them right to their game destination without having to be able to read and type in a web address.