Application of Project-Based Learning and QR Codes in Geography Teaching: The Project “Geo QR – Scan and Learn”

Ljupka Milenković

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the application of project-based learning in geography teaching through the integration of traditional hand-drawn geographical maps and the contemporary use of QR codes, as an approach to encouraging active, inquiry-based and interactive learning among students. The paper presents the project “Geo QR – Scan and Learn”, implemented at OOU “Vojdan Chernodrinski” Primary School in Skopje, North Macedonia, with students from grades 7, 8 and 9 during the 2025/2026 school year. The project was organized as a series of interconnected activities that included research into geographical content, team-based creation of maps of different continents and regions, and the development of QR codes through which the students’ work was enriched with digital educational content. The selection of continents and regions was aligned with the geography curriculum, with students from different grades working on content studied within regular instruction. The QR codes provided access to photographs, facts, explanations and other educational resources, thus linking printed teaching materials with digital content. Based on the observation of students’ work, the analysis of the produced materials and the feedback received during the project, the findings indicated that students perceived the project as motivating, engaging and supportive of their active participation in the learning process. The activities provided opportunities for students to develop geographical knowledge, digital literacy, creativity, communication skills and critical thinking. Additionally, a post-project anonymous questionnaire was completed by 165 students. The results indicated a highly positive perception of the applied approach in terms of students’ interest in learning, understanding of geographical content, and willingness to participate in similar project activities again. The findings indicate that the use of QR codes in geography teaching can contribute to the modernization of instruction, better connection between traditional and digital teaching resources, and the creation of a more interactive learning environment. The project represents a practical example of the integration of digital tools through project-based learning and active student participation.

Keywords: geography; QR codes; project-based learning; digital literacy; interactive learning