Embedding Algorithms and Programs in QR codes for Improving Teaching and Learning through Mobile Devices

In the recent years, QR (Quick Response) codes have become ubiquitous which are used for various applications in domains such as governments, museums, airlines, shopping malls, retail markets, manufacturing, logistics, hospitals, and education institutions. QR codes can embed various types of data such as image, text, URL, e-mail, SMS, Wi-Fi credentials, passwords, payment information, and business cards. In this paper, we propose how QR codes can be used in courses related algorithms and data structures, and programming languages. The main purpose of using QR codes is that, while teaching these courses, students need to focus on information such as program codes which is hard to visualize from far. For example, a typical program includes hundreds of lines of code, and if they are presented in a power-point presentation, it is not easy for students to see variables, operators, letters, and programming constructs. Algorithms also generally include several lines along with symbols, variables, and operators. To make it more visible in their mobile phones, programs and algorithms are embedded in QR codes for students to see them in their mobile devices. Irrespective of some of the limitations, the use of QR codes in programming languages, algorithms, and data structures courses are found to be interactive, highly engaging, and significantly beneficial to positive learning experience.