QR Codes in Higher ED: Fad or Functional Tool?

As higher education grapples with addressing the 21st century needs of learners, technology is a pervasive concern. Waters (2012) painted a picture of three historical “screens,” namely the television screen, the computer monitor, and today's mobile device screen. As mobile devices become increasingly commonplace in the workplace and on the street, educators are faced with challenges to staying updated, infusing relevant use, and engaging students who are both media-savvy and device-dependent (Edson & Gradel, 2011; Gradel, 2012). Quick Response (QR) codes—easy-to-use links from offline to online content—may be functional “hooks” to making mobilism more relevant to student learning and engagement in higher education. This article addresses: basics about QR codes, popular and research literature, and recommended cross-discipline applications and efficiencies in higher education.