QR codes continue to be one of the most effective ways of quickly getting students to an online resource (Check out some of these cool ideas). With the proliferation of mobile devices like cell phones and tablets, scanning a QR code is often just an app away, and classrooms that have iPads rarely think twice about using a QR code to get students to a resource lickety split.
But what about Qr Codes on Chromebooks and laptops?
As long as the Chromebook or laptop has a web camera (including usb webcams) you can still have students scan QR codes. I like the Scan QR app for the Chrome browser.
After installing the Scan QR app from the Chrome Web Store you may want to have students move the app to prominent location in their Chrome apps menu by dragging the app to the first page. Or go one step further by making a permanent icon link on the taskbar (also called the shelf on Chromebooks). To do this right click on the app. On a Chromebook you will see the message "Pin to shelf" and on a laptop you will see "Create shortcuts". This will put a permanent app link at the bottom of the screen that is always ready for use.
After installing the Scan QR app from the Chrome Web Store you may want to have students move the app to prominent location in their Chrome apps menu by dragging the app to the first page. Or go one step further by making a permanent icon link on the taskbar (also called the shelf on Chromebooks). To do this right click on the app. On a Chromebook you will see the message "Pin to shelf" and on a laptop you will see "Create shortcuts". This will put a permanent app link at the bottom of the screen that is always ready for use.
Using the SCan QR App
Using the Scan QR app is simple. Click on the app link and a small preview window will open. The app will activate the web camera. Align your QR Code inside the preview window and the app will automatically scan the QR code. When the QR Code is successfully scanned the URL will be displayed. Click "Go to URL" to activate the link. That's it!
Tip
Since most Chromebooks and laptops only have one camera, you cannot easily scan QR codes that are displayed on projectors or walls because it requires students to turn their device around and attempt to align the QR code in the scanner without easily seeing how the code is lining up. Printed QR codes are best when using the Scan QR app.