What is a QR Code??

You have probably seen a QR code around, maybe you have even used one. But, have you ever wondered how you could use them with your students?

QR stands for Quick Response code. Basically, it is kind of like a barcode. A lot of information is encoded in the small picture. To get the information you use an app to take a picture of the code, which then relays the information to your device. QR codes can link to websites, pictures, text you input and more.

So how can this help you and your students? Imagine never having to help 24 second graders type in a website's address or navigate to a link. Ahhhhhh, relief! QR codes can be used to link students to homework assignments, help guide them to good websites for research, for scavenger hunts and more. Currently, I am having my classes use QR codes to read book reviews. Having them scan the QR codes is much easier and takes less  time than having them head to a review website, type in a book's title and read the review. Plus, since they are small and the devices that read them (tablets, phones, etc) are portable, I can post the reviews right near the books saving even more time.

Another great thing about QR codes is that students can create them. It is very easy and only takes a few seconds. This past week some 4th graders created QR codes for me with very little guidance. To create a QR code first go to a free generator site. I use http://qrcode.kaywa.com/ . Depending on what kind of information you want to link to, click the different options (SMS is text). Input the information, pick the size you want your QR code to be and click generate. You can then print your QR code from there, or save the code as an image file to put into your documents, on your website, etc.

To scan a QR code download a QR reader (plenty of free ones) onto your device. All of the school's iPads have a QR reader on them called "Scan". Open the app, point the iPad at the QR code and it will read the code and go to the information. Easy, peasy!
Questions? Just email me.

For more ideas check out this Google Presentation created by Tom Barrett.
https://docs.google.com/present/view?id=dhn2vcv5_765hsdw5xcr&pli=1

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Google Forms

This Google Form video goes over the basics of using Google Forms.

Tanzania, VoiceThread and the Super3!

Gennie and Ashley thought of a great way to incorporate the Super3 into a cultural exchange project that they are doing with a school in Tanzania. Students brainstormed all the things they wanted to know about Tanzania and then the classes used the Super3 to research what life is like in Tanzania. The students used databases, books, encyclopedias and websites to research Tanzania. Students also were able to interview two people (one in person and one via Skype) who had been to Tanzania. After collecting all of the information, small groups created brochures, newsletters and posters about Tanzania. Using VoiceThread we imported pictures of the products they created and the students explained their research. This research can then be shared with the rest of the class as well as their families. Below are some of the finished VoiceThreads.

TASC

What is TASC?
The Tech Assist Service Center (TASC) is the new district-wide, web-based Help Desk ticketing system. It will help us provide staff members with more efficient hardware, network and software support and service.
Why Use TASC?
*TASC keeps track of all technology troubleshooting requests
*TASC will allow teachers to directly submit both repair requests as well as questions about software and hardware usage
*responses will be sent directly to the individual submitting the request
Why Has TASC Been Initiated?
TASC will help manage the growing technology needs throughout the district.
NPS is a large and demanding environment, requiring support of:
*over 6,000 computers and 90 servers
*an abundance of software programs
*a complex network infrastructure
*2,000 faculty and staff

For directions on using TASC please visit the "TASC How To Page" under Staff Resources on the Newton Public Schools Website.
http://www3.newton.k12.ma.us/staff-resources/tasc

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