Title: How QR code is reshaping educational technologies: a multi-method exploratory study from China

Authors: Hasan Tinmaz; Jin Hwa Lee

Addresses: AI and Big Data Department, Endicott College of International Studies, Woosong University, Daejeon, South Korea ' Emergency Medical Service Department, College of Health and Welfare, Woosong University, Daejeon, South Korea

Abstract: The study investigates user perceptions of QR code usage in education, focusing on participants' QR code familiarity, previous QR code experience, belief in QR code's positive effects, and defining QR code usage. The study includes 1,016 Chinese students and employs both quantitative (survey) and qualitative (interview) instruments. Exploratory factor analysis identifies three factors from the survey items: 'benefits of QR code for instruction', 'benefits of QR code for students' and 'QR code integration earlier than higher education'. Comparative tests reveal gender differences where male students scored higher in the first factor. School level significantly impacts all three factors, with secondary school students showing the most positive attitudes. QR code familiarity, previous QR code experience, and belief in QR code's positive effects induced positive user perceptions. Qualitative interviews support quantitative findings, emphasising QR code's role in accessing information, enriching learning, and improving efficiency.

Keywords: QR code; education; educational technology; instructional technology; China.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2026.152875

International Journal of Learning Technology, 2026 Vol.21 No.1, pp.80 - 100

Received: 30 Jan 2024
Accepted: 01 May 2024
Published online: 14 Apr 2026 *

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