Blog #2 Quick Response Codes

When I first started this assignment, I had no clue as to what quick response codes were. One friend described them as "boxes with Alien Hieroglyphics". Having created one and having done some research the applications were far more then I thought.

Originally designed to keep track of parts in vehicle manufacturing by a Japanese company, the desire and need for easier commerce and expression of information adapted the Codes to  new applications. In public, these codes on ads or on buildings allow a user with a mobile phone to scan the image and be immediately linked to more information about it. For the Library, users can scan books to find out reviews and other data about a book, media or even video materials. They can link to the various databases to find if there are other books perhaps by that author or in that series or genre, or look to see if another location would have that material.  As the codes can include text it is also great for those mobile phone users without a data subscription.

Non-obvious applications would be to post QR signs at various points in the library for directions to various locations. Further linked to this would be to get information from a digital catalog, and then scan the QR codes for directions to find the one specific book you were looking for. Another QR code could be used to send a Text request for assistance from a Librarian on duty. 

Faster and more indepth access and data are all hallmarks of quick response codes. The fact that people can make them easily without need for special proprietary purchase of software makes them more appealing. The applications and uses are as varied as our patrons. I look forward to seeing what can happen next.

Individual Technology Assessment

I have been out of the classroom for many years due to a series of personal tragedies in my life, and so my skills have atrophied unfortunately.

Upon reflection, I am not up to date with many social networking items such as facebook and twitter. I have seen too many abuses of the technology against teachers by vengeful individuals, and too many other teachers who leave an innocent comment are taken out of context and face harsh punishment for something they thought was innocent.  Many friends and family use the technology but I have not really had a need to do so until recently.

 However, I grew up with computers and the technology and never really found them difficult to learn or update my skills with. If anything I am perhaps too hard on my technology as I expect it to be able to do more than it may have been designed for.  I have always been the type that if I see a need or area of definable weakness I sit and do the research  and skills practice to become proficient with what I need or want to do.

  I adapt to new challenges and tend to enjoy playing with new technology to see how it works. My adaptability and love of learning are what I consider to be great strengths and those will help me get past my weaknesses. Technology doesn’t intimidate me.

 Weaknesses are simply temporary to me, at least in regards to technology. To be blunt, practice, learning and asking questions are my solution to my weaknesses. You learn by doing it is true, but first you need to know where you are weak.