QR Codes
QR (Quick Response) Codes aren't an everyday term yet, but
they are gaining popularity and are finding their way into many
areas, including education.
What are QR Codes?
A QR
Code is a special type of two-dimensional barcode. At a size which
most camera phones can use, the codes can hold 100-120 characters.
The image to the right is a QR Code containing a hyperlink to the
College website.
Why would I use QR Codes?
QR Codes lend themselves to a number of uses, but perhaps the
most obvious are of storing short pieces of information or linking
to small content on the internet.
Short text information
QR Codes can store text information, although it is recommended
that you keep below 120 characters to ensure that the code is
readable on the majority of compatible mobile phones.
Link to web pages
Linking to web pages via QR Codes can make accessing online
material incredibly simple. You simply takes a photo of
the code and aredirected to the page, as opposed to having to type
in an address. Being able to access information on the go and store
it in the palm of your hand opens up a range of opportunities.
How do I create QR Codes?
Creating a QR Code itself is very easy and is done using one of
a variety of free tools online. In addition, we offer a
service to create QR Codes for web pages using our own generator,
which you can access
here (note: only available internally on campus).
Whether linking to a quiz or supporting material, the
information should be kept short enough to hold the user's interest
on a small device, and to load quickly.
How do I read QR Codes on my phone?
To read codes, you need to have a mobile device which has both a
camera and a piece of software to decode QR Codes. Many Nokia
mobile phones now come pre-installed with software, and for a wide
range of others there are free tools available.
Go to this website to find
out about free QR code applications to use on your phone.
Once you have software installed on your phone, then open it up,
point the phone camera at a QR Code and take a picture. The code
should be a reasonable size on screen, and must not be heavily
distorted or cut off.
The software will then decode the QR code and display the
information or or action, such as directing you to the
stored web address.
Where can I get help and advice?
For further information, please contact
us.