Uses for Quick Response Codes

Quick Response codes (QR codes) are something I have not really noticed much, but now that I am aware of their presence and purposes, I will be looking out for them, smart phone in hand!

There are countless ways QR codes could be used in the library for the benefit of its patrons due to their quick and easy use. Using QR Codes, patrons will be pleasantly surprised at finding information they might not have known was available such as, book reviews after scanning a code on a book jacket.
QR codes can provide access to: video, audio, websites, blogs, and so on. For example, it would be great to scan a QR code that leads students to a how-to video on using the library's online catalog. Other examples might be used for library exhibits: access to extra videos or pictures about artifacts, virtual letters or journal entries, or video of an author’s reading. All of these could also be placed on the library's website to generate interest about events, like exhibits, and encourage patrons to attend. A QR code could be put on numerous things that lead to the library's website or Facebook page, such as: flyers, t-shirts, postcards, etc. If (when) books begin using QR codes more consistently, patrons can view background information about time periods, interviews with authors, updates on information, and so on. Regarding library advertising, QR codes could be scanned to enter drawings, take quick surveys, and other patron participation events.

It is obvious that using QR codes in the library could be very beneficial considering the limitless uses this tool presents. I am very excited about getting more practice using QR codes and hope to see them used more frequently to get more information to the masses in a quick, efficient manner.

Individual Technology Assessment

I am fearful that I am not even aware of all my weaknesses regarding the use of technology. It is becoming clearer to me that there are many tools and possibilities of which I am unfamiliar so I often feel very intimidated and extremely “behind”. However, I have also found that I have been able to discover things on my own about the use of technology, which can be very encouraging and reassuring.

A particular strength I feel I possess is the ability to find answers for myself with the help of the Internet. I am also fairly savvy when it comes to social networking, e-mail, creating presentations using Power Point or Publisher, and I enjoy using my Flip video and digital cameras to upload and share videos and pictures. All of these technologies may be used in the classroom.

 However, I know there are many more technologies out there of which I am unaware, which introduces my weaknesses regarding technology.  I feel that my main weaknesses are my lack of knowledge regarding what Web 2.0 tools are available and also, therefore, my lack of know-how regarding the use of these tools.

I plan to address these weaknesses by familiarizing myself with Web 2.0 tools and other technologies that may be utilized in the classroom through coursework, inquiry, and discovery. I want to purpose myself to seek out the tools and technologies of which I am unfamiliar and to practice using them, rather than avoid them while maintaining an attitude of intimidation. It is an overwhelming feeling to know there are many technologies about which to learn, but it is also an exciting feeling to know that as each semester goes by, I will have had practice with them, and I will even be able to share them with others.