What is a QR Code?
In simple terms a QR or Quick Response Code is a type of barcode. If your phone has a QR Code Reader application installed you can take a picture of the Codes and they'll link your phone to a webpage or specific content.
This is an example of QR Code. By scanning this with a compatible mobile phone, you can download an MP3 audio tour of Level 3 of the Library to your phone.
The Learning and Teaching Enhancement Office is currently promoting the use of QR Codes on campus
Why would I use a QR Code?
You may find that scanning a QR Code and storing or accessing data directly using your mobile phone is more convenient that writing down URLs on a separate piece of paper.
For example, some students may have seen QR Codes on lecture slides that provide a weblink to course content stored on Moodle or go to a lecturer's homepage.
QR Codes in the Library
You'll find QR Codes in use in the Library:
- On the Library catalogue, individual records of books and journal titles available on the shelves include a QR Code. By reading the code, you can save the Title, Author and Classmark of the book you are viewing on the catalogue to help you find it on the shelves (link to catalogue to view example)
- Library Floorplans have a QR Code that links users directly to an MP3 Audio Tour on that Subject Floor. (Downloads are in MP3 format and the file size is around 7.5 Mb)
Is my phone compatible?
Most modern phone handsets with a camera will be able to capture QR Codes. However, you may need to install a QR Code Reader application specific to your phone handset before you can read the codes.
If not then you can easily install a free one. There are various ways of locating QR Code reader software for your mobile phone:
- Search online with the keywords, QR Code Reader and the make and model of your phone
- Visit one of the sites listed at the end of this page to see if they provide a QR Code Reader for your phone
If your phone has wireless network access, you should be able to download data using QR Codes by connecting to the campus wireless network.
Otherwise, make sure you are aware of the charges for downloading data if you are accessing online content through your mobile phone service provider network.
Further Information
The Learning Teaching and Enhancement Office (LTEO) maintains online resources relating to QR Codes.
Links to External websites for QR Code Reader software: