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Teaching ideas based on New York Times content.
We've asked the education writer Suzie Boss to do a series of guest lessons for us about using The Times Fixes blog, which explores solutions to major social problems, as inspiration for designing real-world projects for schools.
This post, the first in our series, introduces the concept of "project-based learning" and suggests some ways in which this strategy can work with recent Fixes topics.
For Authentic Learning, Start with Real Problems
If your students are prone to asking, "When will we ever need to know this?", then maybe it's time for a dose of reality.
By sparking students' interest in real issues that affect them and their peers around the world, you will give them cause to think more critically about what they are learning. Better yet, you may give them a head start on becoming tomorrow's problem-solvers.
Fixes, a series that is part of the Opinionator section of The New York Times, focuses on some of today's most pressing social problems and the innovators working to solve them. These global dispatches offer ready entry points for projects that challenge students to propose their own solutions to issues that may strike close to home.
For example, a recent Fixes post, "For Teenage Smokers, Removing the Allure of the Pack," begins with a compelling statistic: only 1 in 10 smokers picks up the habit after age 18.
The columnist Tina Rosenberg explains why teenagers hold the best answers for curbing smoking rates. The article practically invites students to begin their own viral marketing campaigns to make smoking uncool. In the process, they could meet academic standards for science and health, English language arts, or technology integration.
Across the curriculum, more learning opportunities can be found in Fixes posts relating to everything from addressing illiteracy to common-sense solutions for environmental challenges. Project-based learning, or P.B.L., offers a framework for investigating these real-world issues while also addressing academic learning goals.
P.B.L. Basics: Questions Come First
Inquiry is the engine of project-based learning. That is why good projects start with intriguing questions that students will want to answer. These are often called driving questions because they drive students toward important learning goals.
Students learn academic content by doing investigations, which may involve traditional research or background reading, interviews with experts, data gathering and analysis, or designing and testing their own solutions. While working on project teams, students also develop so-called soft skills like collaboration and time management.
Unlike more traditional instruction, which often ends with a test or paper that the teacher assigns, P.B.L. asks students to apply their learning in creative ways. At the end of a project, students typically produce something, demonstrate or perform something, advocate for a policy change or other solution, or teach something to others, honing their communication skills in the process.
Appropriate questions for projects are open-ended (and can't be Googled), allowing students room to follow their curiosity. Good driving questions are relevant, connecting to students' lives or interests, and should challenge students to think critically.
For Example…?
Here are a few examples of project ideas inspired by real-world issues described in recent Fixes posts:
— "For Healthy Aging, a Late Act in the Footlights" describes an arts program, called EngAGE, for low-income elderly people that challenges stereotypes about creativity and aging. Students might be inspired by the article — and an analysis of health care costs for the elderly — to suggest solutions to this question: How can we help our elders live healthier and happier lives?
A 2011 video about EngAGE, the subject of this Fixes post.
— In "Open Education for a Global Economy," the Fixes columnist David Bornstein examines the opportunities of free and open online education. Although he suggests potential benefits for unskilled workers in high-poverty regions of the world, he also points out, "Online learning is a mixed bag." This article could prompt students to evaluate online learning programs, like Khan Academy or Udacity, or contrast online and face-to-face learning. A driving question for a project might ask students to discover: How do we learn best?
— "Fighting Depression, One Village at a Time" begins with this revelation: "The disease that robs the most adults of the most years of productive life is not AIDS, not heart disease, not cancer. It is depression." Tina Rosenberg reports on growing global attention for mental health issues and low-cost approaches for treating depression with lay therapists. Students could use Ms. Rosenberg's reporting as the starting point for examining access to mental health services in their own community or within their demographic group. A driving question you might ask students to consider: What keeps us from caring?
Getting Started With Projects
If you are new to project-based learning, you can watch an overview of this instructional process in the Edutopia video Project-Based Learning: Success Start to Finish.
You will notice that projects have bookends: an entry event that grabs student interest at the outset and a culminating event where students showcase what they have learned at the end. In between is the deep learning that you, as teacher, help to facilitate.
More resources for project planning, management and assessment are available from the Buck Institute for Education. The institute also provides research summaries about the benefits of P.B.L., which include heightened student engagement and academic gains along with increased teacher satisfaction.
Find more strategies for using the news as a hook for "ripped from the headlines" projects in this Edutopia post.
In Part 2 of this series, we'll look at a recent Fixes column, "The Recycling Reflex," and offer strategies for turning a ubiquitous issue like trash into an engaging, relevant service-learning project.
Ms. Boss is the author of "Reinventing Project-Based Learning: Your Field Guide to Real-World Projects in the Digital Age" and "Bringing Innovation to School: Empowering Students to Thrive in a Changing World." She also writes about project-based learning regularly at Edutopia.


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3D Model, CAD, CAM / Prototyping, Concept, Consultancy, Graphic Design, PrePress, Product Design, Render, Research / Analysis
Mifare card reader is used to identify and update people attendance at work, lectures, etc. eRFID Mifare reader supports MIFARE cards, it has an Ethernet interface to the master system and Ethernet communication is fully encrypted. The device is powered via a PoE.

subset: commoncrawl


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Iliado Greek Kalamata Extra Virgin Olive Oil. 750ml.$19.50
Availability: Out Of Stock
Manufacturer: Iliada
Iliado Kalamata is first cold pressed and has a naturally low acidity of less than 0,4%. It is pressed from Koroneiki olives and from groves located on the slopes of the Taygetous mountains which run in the South Peloponnese, on the east side of Kalamata. The olives are harvested by hand from November to January and are cold pressed mainly in the traditional manner. Fruity with a mild taste of olives, ideal for salad dressing, grilled fish, white meat, raw sauces, pasta and vegetables. Rich in monounsaturated for your healthy diet.
This olive oil is awarded the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) mark, meaning that it is strictly produced and bottled in the geographical region of Kalamata.
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3 Day Startup Global Roundup @ PortoFor the first time in our history we are inviting our entire global network to Austin, Texas and Porto, Portugal concurrently for a global roundup happening June 12-14.
Porto, the undefeated city, is all about heart and charisma.
Here, culture meets innovation and history meets the future.
Once you arrive expect warm welcomes, great food and amazing weather!
Here we feel cozy, we feel at home. We develop a feeling of ownership with every landmark, with every street. The city is ours.
– Eduardo Aires, Porto's new Visual Identity
ALIADOS AVENUE ( Event venue )
from airport
Approx. 22 min 41º13'11"N / 8º33'42"W
Exit at the station Porto – São Bento
Take the bus number 601/602 and get off at Cordoaria.
Take the purple (E) line to Estádio do Dragão and get off at Trindade. Change to the yellow line (D) to Santo Ovídio and get off at Aliados.
PORTO CRUZ ( Meet&Greet venue )
from Aliados Av.
Approx. 10 min
Espaço Porto Cruz Largo Miguel Bombarda, N.º23 4400 – 222 Vila Nova de Gaia
Take the bus 900/901/906 and get off at Sandeman Cellars (Caves).
Take the yellow line (D) to Santo Ovídio and get off at Jardim do Morro.
How do I get to the Global Roundup?
That's entirely up to you! Get some friends together and make it into a road trip, or get a plane ticket.
We're fully available to help you planning it! Unfortunately, 3DS does not have the ability to cover airfare or lodging.
Why should I come to the Global Roundup? What's in it for me?
First off, it is a great way to meet some amazing people. 3DSers are awesome folks who make exciting things happen.
If you are working on launching your company, we are putting together a lot of content to help you do just that.
If you are building up the entrepreneurial eco-system in your community we believe that the panels, speakers and meetings will be a great asset in propelling you forward.
Where should I stay?
There will be several options.
We are blocking off some rooms in hostels in the heart of Porto. For people who don't want to go the hostel route, we are looking into hotels in the area. Reach us for help!
Why do I have to buy a ticket?
We really need to keep track of everyone attending to assure you the best possible experience!
I am an international. Can 3DS help me with a visa to do the Global Roundup?
Good question! We are currently looking into this as a possibility. Feel free to ask for a formal invitation.
I have never done a 3DS. Do I have to get a "non-3DS" ticket?
That depends. The non-3DS tickets are really meant for faculty and professionals who are looking to network, learn and scope out talent. If you feel like you have a special case for getting the cheaper 3DS ticket, let me know: email@example.com


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- This event has passed.
Horn Counseling Individual Sessions
September 25, 2019 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
|Recurring Event (See all)
An event every week that begins at 11:00 am on Wednesday, repeating until December 18, 2019
Is life becoming difficult to manage?
Are you feeling overwhelmed?
If you answered yes, then take advantage of the opportunity to meet individually with a counselor. Horn Counseling is partnering with Nossi College of Art to help you overcome life's challenges. To book your one-on-one session, visit their website at http://www.horncounseling.org.
Fees are reduced to accommodate your student budget.


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The ski and snowboard community for readers of First Tracks!! Online Ski Magazine
Anthony wrote:Close to a foot of snow fell over the Laurentian region over the past 7 days including 4 inches that fell yesterday morning . Yesterday's snow was perfect timing as the accumulated snow provided boot deep turns in the Laurentian hills. Doesn't get any better . Snow on a Saturday morning with no competition . Skiing is prime these days , even Tremblant's web page photo's are showing powder images . Dry snow into late March is perfect, no rush for corn .
jamesdeluxe wrote:Did they ever determine what caused the Mont Alta fire?
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7 Fun Gifts a Graduate Will Actually Use
Celebrate the accomplishments of the new high school or college graduate by gifting him/her with these fun and practical items they'll actually use (and love). BONUS: all of these gift ideas are under $50!
1. Epilogue™ bookends ($45 retail): These bookends are designed to resemble real hardcover books, giving the illusion that your books are standing on their own. A great gift for the book lover or English major!
2. Cooper™ nail polish organizer ($18 retail): Anyone who's ever lived in a college dorm or a first-time apartment knows that space is sacred. This organizer is a great way to store favorite nail polishes while saving space. Fill this organizer with new and trendy polishes for the grad and you have the PERFECT gift. Available in three colors (white, pink and silver) and holds eight polishes.
3. ThreeSixFive™ calendars ($28.50 retail): In this increasingly digitized world, we need objects we can touch and feel. Flip the colorfully painted blocks to designate the correct date and month on this perpetual calendar. The new graduate can use this calendar year after year.
4. Sedona™ cactus decorations ($11.50 retail): This trendy cactus set will add a little charm to any dorm room or apartment. BONUS: No green thumb required for these desert flowers.
5. Merit™ magnet ($7 retail): If the new graduate is not a morning person, they will become one very soon. This hand-stitched patch magnet is an amusing reminder for the graduate that we all get by with a little help from our friend coffee.
6. Folio™ pouch ($22.50 retail): This Folio pouch is made out of the same material that's found on the back of your jeans - indestructible and washable. It's sized to hold important mid-term papers and works great for toting a laptop across campus for a long day of classes. The inside of the pouch is padded to protect its contents.
7. Edison™ condiment caddy ($22.50 retail): This multi-function caddy might be the most useful item on the list. It's perfect for housing plastic utensils, napkins and favorite condiments in a dorm room or use it as a command center to organize all of your TV remotes. Use it in your bathroom cabinet to store frequently used hair care items (hair spray, hair ties, brushes, etc.) that you don't want on display. See what I mean? The possibilities are endless.
Save 20% on all graduation gifts with code CAPSOFF17. Click here to shop!


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45a South End Road, Belsize Park & Chalk Farm, London, NW3 2QB
Cuisine: Italian
Tel: 020 7435 7814 | Transport: Belsize Park | Write review
Mimmo La Bufala Description
With its chic and elegant style, Mimmo La Bufala is nestled in London's fashionable Hampstead. Specialising in Italian cuisine, the menu is heavily inspired by dishes encompassing organic buffalo mozzarella and buffalo meat. Diners can enjoy tantalising dishes ranging from large mozzarella and buffalo sausage platters, or delicious fresh gnocchi pasta dishes. Featuring al fresco dining, Mimmo La Bufala also offers an array of wines from the Campania region.
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- Cuisine Type: Italian
- Group: (Independent/Freehouse)
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- The Garden Gate (0.10 km)
- The Magdala (0.10 km)
- Roebuck (0.17 km)
- Freemasons Arms (0.25 km)
- White Horse (0.28 km)
Nearby Restaurants
- Curry Paradise (0.04 km)
- Dominique's In Hampstead Heath (0.10 km)
- Ascanio (0.17 km)
- Bengal Village (0.17 km)
- Moors the Pleasure (0.28 km)
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Stocks added to gains Thursday, led by banks, after investors cheered a pair of employment reports that showed better-than-expected results.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped after finishing higher in the previous session.
Here are six stocks that are on the move:
Trina Solar
The solar products manufacturer was upgraded to overweight from underweight at HSBC while raising the price target to $30.
Lumber Liquidators
The hardwood-flooring retailer issued an earnings warning for the second quarter and cut full year guidance, citing more promotional sales and rising transportation costs.
Capital One
The consumer finance firm was upgraded to outperform from market perform at KBW.
Intuitive Surgical
The medical equipment company was downgraded to neutral from buy at Gleacher.
Western Digital
The computer hard drive manufacturer was upgraded to overweight from neutral at JP Morgan.
The computer services company was downgraded to neutral from buy at Davenport.
Get the latest stock picks on the CNBC Stock Blog.


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The TCB-CSR Initiative was first incorporated as part of The Complete Banker ("TCB"), the management trainee programme of CIMB Group, in 2007. As the objectives of TCB is to nurture and groom well-rounded young talents for CIMB Group, it is important that CSR be incorporated as a vital component of the programme. Management trainees under TCB are required to complete certain CSR requirements within a period of one year.
The key objectives of TCB-CSR are
Management trainees, or TCB Associates, are involved in a variety of activities – from planning and running large scale charitable events to providing tuition for underprivileged kids. In return for their efforts, they gain valuable experiences and skills, build friendships and earn a sense of achievement from knowing that they have made a sustainable and lasting impact in society.


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Classic looks were derived from a popular trend that had staying power!
I feel that current trends come from great ideas from the past! When they work well with old and new, we call them "Classic"! Classic is a beautiful term, and "On Trend" is a current and fresh term. So staying current and on trend is classic, and having a classic touch is trendy!


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Click here to download an easy check-list for staying focused whilst working from home.
9 Easy ways to stay focused whilst working from home
I'm fairly certain that most people who are reading this blog will have either:
- Worked from home or
- Had a desire to work from home (or any location that isn't a workplace for that matter!)
Lifestyle businesses are often started in your spare time and can evolve into full-time work, so I'll aim to help you figure out how to start working from home. However, there are a number of challenges when working from home.
Mainly? Staying focused.
Focus is a tricky thing and as at the time of writing this article, this is my first day of being jobless (yesterday was my last day at work, you can read about how I left my job to pursue my dreams of location independence here) so being focused at home is crucial so that I can focus on my blog and business.
However staying focused whilst working from home can be hard so I'm going to go through 9 super easy ways to stay focused. Although these tips are aimed at people who are working from home these techniques can be used whilst travelling as well.
1. Set yourself a work schedule
When you are in a normal job, you have a start time and a finish time. Seems simple right? There are a number of reasons why we do that:
- To make sure you show up and complete a sufficient amount of work
- For consistency, so people can schedule when to meet with you or catch-up on work tasks
- To make sure a certain number of hours are completed
Well, that all makes sense for a regular job, but surely the appeal of working from home is that you don't have to work on a schedule right?
That may be an appeal initially, but you can soon find that by not having a designated start and finish time you become very unproductive. In my first day of 'working' from home I woke up at 10am, ate breakfast, read some emails, and before I knew it, it was 12:30pm and I hadn't done a single bit of productive work.
Watch out for the trap of not setting yourself a schedule; I advise setting up some non-negotiable working time. For me, I'm setting non-negotiable time to work from 9am-12pm on my blog, with the plan to eat breakfast and workout either before or after that time.
2. Divide up your tasks into themes
My mother is one of those organised ladies who has lists for absolutely everything. I'm not suggesting you have lists for everything, although making lists of different themes could work for you. What I'd like to suggest is batching similar tasks together, and then completing these tasks all at the same time.
By batching your tasks into themes, you can do similar work at the same time. Ultimately you will be more productive and less likely to get distracted down the rabbit hole (we've all had the experience of an email popping up, clicking on it, getting distracted and 2 hours later finding ourselves scrolling through some Reddit sub-forum. So easily done.)
An example of some similar tasks that can be batched together into a theme are:
- Invoicing
- Accounts
- Payroll
These are all what I'd class as administration type activities. I've made a list of all administration style jobs that I need to do regularly, and I complete them on a specific day.
The types of categories you use for your lists can be specific to you, but a few examples shared with me by Heath Armstrong over at http://heatharmstrong.com are:
- Administration – As detailed above, these tasks are sometimes menial and can take up a lot of our time. I'd focus on doing the harder tasks when you are at your most productive and the jobs such as email towards the end of the day when you are feeling less focused.
- Deep Work – Deep work days focus on those tasks that you really need to get done and focus on; this can be great for if you need to create content such as blog posts or podcasts. You can batch these tasks (i.e complete lots at once) to get ahead for yourself.
- Media & Growth – Dedicate a day to growing your following and media. This could be anything from promoting social media to joining groups to spread the word about your blog or business. Having a specific day for growth can help you focus on completing that task.
- Education & Brand Creation – Personally one of the biggest distractions that stops me being focused is education. I'm not talking about heading back to school here… I'm talking about blog posts, videos, podcasts, anything that is teaching me something new. I've spent many a 'working afternoon' stuck in YouTube or Google learning about new techniques for growing my blog, without actually taking any actions on growing said blog.By setting aside specific time to educate yourself on a particular topic or on a few different topics, you eliminate the distraction throughout your other work days.
- Communication, Growth & Promotion – In any business, there is always going to be communication that takes place. Whether it's reaching out to other communities and connecting, or guest posting for other bloggers sites, set aside time to complete all your communication tasks together. These can also be paired with Growth & Promotion at the same time. Often you'll need to communicate to do these two tasks so it can make sense to pair them together.
Dividing my tasks into themes is one of the biggest changes I've made to my workflow this week and already I'm noticing a difference in my focus levels. Thanks Heath!
3. Ever heard of the rule of 52 & 17?
No this isn't some weird game of number-wang (that's an inside joke for the British readers or Mitchell & Webb fans)
The rule of 52 & 17 is all about taking breaks!
We should all know that taking regular breaks can lead to better productivity, but a recent experiment has shown that the most effective workers take a 17-minute break every 52 minutes.
I'd suggest using a productivity app such as DeskTime, their free version offers time and app tracking and can be used with mobile.
Check out DeskTime here
Don't get me wrong, I think I can let you off if you are 5 minutes either side of these exact timings, but it's no secret that taking regular breaks whilst working can lead to better focus. It's even better if during that break you have a lovely glass of water… Which leads us neatly into our next point.
4. Stay hydrated
The human brain is made up of 85% water. Dehydration can be a major factor in becoming unfocused, so it makes sense that drinking regular water would help with focus.
Lots of studies have told us that drinking water improves focus, reaction time and general productivity. I've heard that the general advice is to try to drink 8 glasses of water a day (8oz glass for our American readers, 225ml for our European readers and half a pint for the brits!)
My suggestion is to try to drink water every time you take a break, as well as throughout the day. After all, they do say that water is the nectar of the gods.
5. Create a sacred space
I've often noticed that there are certain parts of my home that I'm more productive in than others.
The most unproductive space? The Kitchen.
Why? It's very social.
The kitchen in our house is always buzzing with people coming and going and lots of chatting (I live in a 7 person house share currently, that's a lot!). I've gotten this tip from Heath Armstrong from the Sweet Ass Journal (his journal is truly amazing at keeping you focused, check it out here).
When creating your sacred space think about a few key points:
- Set out an area in your home that is a 'Work-Zone' – When you are in this space you know it's time to get to work. This space doesn't have to be an office; I know a friend whose sacred space is an outside area where he can work on his laptop but be in the fresh air.
- Get rid of any distractions – Mobile phone? Turn it off. TV on in the background? Turn it off. Attention sucking friend or family in your space? Kick them out. You know the drill, these are all killers for focus. I'd even be tempted to shut down your internet if you don't need it for your work, to avoid the world of online distractions.
- Make your sacred space high-energy – Don't have a boring workspace! Something that helps to keep me focused when working from home is high-energy items. Fill your sacred space with artwork or wall tapestries, or any items that fill you with energy and happiness.
- Make your sacred space cosy! – Heath's advice is to stack floor pillows or lay down colourful rugs or yoga blankets. Everybody likes different things, if you're a floor person, rock the floor! If you're a desk person, rock a desk!
Above all else, your sacred space is your area to focus and be productive so design it with focus in mind and put whatever helps you the most in it.
6. Focus on just 2 tasks for the day
This might sound controversial for you list junkies out there, but having a long To Do list can actually be something that's making you unfocused. Here's why.
When you have a long list of tasks, it can feel overwhelming. You've got so much to do!
So what a lot of people (me included) do to feel successful, is begin by ticking off the easy tasks. Check email, order stationary, call the office….soon your list shrinks and you feel like you've accomplished something. But this leaves you with an issue:
The really important tasks are left incomplete because they are the hardest to complete.
Instead of making a list every morning, I now select just the two tasks that are the most important to do. And I focus on them.
Just make sure the tasks you pick will help you progress towards your larger goals!
Having just two tasks to complete for the day helps you complete your two most important tasks everyday, just make sure these tasks you set help you progress towards your larger goals.
7. Manage your time effectively
Managing your time effectively does go hand in hand with focusing on just two tasks, and also with the 52 & 17 rule. Managing your time effectively is all about making a conscious effort on what you are going to spend your time on.
Why does this matter? Let's say for example you say, I'm going to spend the morning working on a blog post. You may find that because that's a large period of time, your time is unstructured and you end up focusing on tasks that don't actually get that blog post written.
If you instead decided to say, I'm going to spend the next 45 minutes on just writing this post, you might find that 45 minutes later you have a large portion of that writing completed (just in time for your 17 minute break, you hard worker you).
Now i'm not saying that in 45 minutes you'll magically get more work done but by having a structure and a focus on a single task as opposed to multiple tasks you are trying to complete in say 4 hours, you should find that breaking your time up into sections and focus on just one task at a time should help you be more productive and focused.
Managing your time effectively can be another tool in your arsenal to help you stay focused and complete your goals and tasks in plenty of time. Another approach which can be equally as productive as managing your time is something I call, single-tasking.
8. Be a Single-Tasking Sensation, not a Multi-Tasking Monster
Throughout my work career, and also in school, I always remember multi-taskers being highly praised.
"Isn't Jennifer a gem, she's managed to complete her homework and coach her little brother through his maths homework at the same time!" – However what they forgot to mention is if they'd focused all her attention on her homework, and then focused all her attention on her brother, both would have achieved a much greater level of focus and probably a better grade.
Don't fall victim to the multi-tasking myth; by focusing on just one task at a time you will achieve a much greater level of focus. This will not only help you complete the task quicker but probably with a much greater amount of skill and detail.
Forget Jack of all trades, master of none. Be a single-tasking sensation.
9. Enter your Alpha state
Alpha what now?
This is a variation on a meditation technique which I've been using this week, and I've found it to be highly effective.
Step 1:
- Sit up straight in a chair in a relaxed position, make sure your back is straight, your feet are flat on the floor and your arms are either rested on your lap or on an armrest.
Step 2:
- Close your eyes and visualise yourself in a place that makes you feel calm and serene.
Step 3:
- Whilst still visualising, take deep breaths. Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth. Try to do this at a slow pace. I always aim for 5 seconds breathing in, hold my breath for 5 seconds, breath out for 5 seconds, hold my breath for 5 seconds. Do this multiple times until you feel calm.
Step 4:
- When you feel calm, whilst you are inhaling with your eyes still closed, look up (this activates your visual cortex). Whilst exhaling, look down and open your eyes slowly. Try to do all of this at the same tempo that you have been breathing at.
Step 5:
- Congratulations, you are now in Alpha-State. This highly focused state will help your brain focus on whatever you choose to do. What does this actually mean? The next tasks you aim to complete will be much easier to focus on, and you won't get distracted as easily.
Time to put your ways to focus into practice
Thank you for taking the time to read this article and I hope that you can use some of these tips to help you focus more at home, I know I'm going to be using them in the coming weeks!
Please let me know in the comments any other tips you use to help stay focused either at home or on the road whilst travelling.
Stay classy,


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March is finally upon us. Unfortunately, here in Nebraska, Spring is a little late in coming. The cold and snow is slowing down the one of the biggest shows the state has to offer which is, the migration of the sandhills cranes.
For those that don't know about the migration, each year 650,000 cranes will come across Nebraska and rest near Kearney. It is an AMAZING sight. If you like birdwatching you need to make a trip to the Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon. The first time I saw the magnitude of these birds I was in awe. The sky is literally filled with birds and the sound is unbelievable.
The Rowe Sanctuary also has guided outdoor viewing of the birds. The best time to see the birds are at sunrise and sunset. I was fortunate to view them on a beautiful, Spring evening. The Nebraska sunset was outstanding with its colors of orange, yellows and red. Seeing the birds circling above as they landed in the river was like watching a tornado. It was mesmerizing and really touched your soul.
Along with the sandhills cranes, you might get lucky enough to see a few of the rare Whooping cranes. These birds are starting to make a come back after being on the endangered list. I'm happy to say that to numbers of the Whooping crane have gone from only 15 in the 1940's to around 600 now.
Along with the Cranes, you will see Canadian geese, snow geese, and ducks of all kinds. If you are lucky, you will also get to see the king of the birds…the bald eagle.
Bald eagles have made a tremendous come back since they were on the endangered list in 1978. It was estimated there were less than 400 breeding pairs. When the eagles were taken off the endangered and threatened list in 2007, there were more than 9000 breeding pairs!
The Bald Eagles migrate to Nebraska from October to May. I have seen quite a few around my area. They are a wondrous sight. The eagles like to stay close to open water where they are close to a food supply. One place that you can visit is the J-2 Hydro plant south of Lexington Nebraska. The best time of the year to view the eagles are February and March.
If you happen to be traveling through Nebraska soon, make sure you stop in and check the Rowe Sanctuary or the Hydro Plant. You can also visit the Game and Parks website for more information
You will be amazed at the beauty of nature.


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Oct 15
This weekend I will be signing books at the Emerald City Writers' Conference book fair. If you live in the area, please stop by and say hi! I'll be signing HEARTS OF DARKNESS and HEARTS OF SHADOW, chatting, and handing out bookmarks, and signing cover flats of HEARTS OF CHAOS. A portion of the proceeds benefit DAWN, the Domestic Abuse Women's Shelter. If you don't live in the area, you can still order signed books and help out a great cause:
Barnes & Noble is trying something new and ECWC gets the first crack at it. This Saturday is the… Read more »


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What are Damon Braces?
Damon Braces are a type of fixed brace where the blocks are glued to the teeth. High tech shape-memory wires are then used to move teeth comfortably and effectively. Damon Braces are designed to be discreet, comfortable and easy to keep clean. There are 2 options, Damon Q (metal fixed brace) or Damon Clear (White/Clear fixed brace) to suit your personal needs
Along with providing great results, Damon Braces are one of the most affordable fixed brace treatments. Angus has treated hundreds of patients with Damon Braces and chose to have them when he had braces!
Are Damon Braces noticeable to other people?
Damon Braces are available as metal or white/clear blocks. Even Damon Q (metal brace) are a lot less conspicuous than traditional metal braces. The type of white/clear fixed brace routinely used by Angus is called Damon Clear. As you can see in the photos, it is very difficult to see the Damon Clear Brace!
Before and After Damon Treatment (one of Angus' patients)
Read testimonials from Angus' Damon Brace patient's
Yasmin, treated with Damon Braces
" I love my smile now, I am more confident and don't mind showing my teeth. The service was excellent and Angus always kept me informed about everything he was doing and why he was carrying out the treatment. Don't wait (if you're considering having brace treatment), to be able to smile with confidence is a feeling I cannot put into words, apart from "it's amazing"
Emily, treated with Damon Braces
"Treatment and service was excellent, over 12 months there was very little discomfort and I am now very proud of the results and am amazed at how quickly the process was. DON'T hesitate just go for it!"
Jonathan, treated with Damon Braces
"I have been very pleased with the service and professional & friendly way I have been looked after. I wish I had done this years ago"
Emily, treated with Damon Braces
"Amazing! Excellent service and treatment which was a pleasant experience. I can smile confidently my teeth are no longer crooked. It doesn't hurt as mush as you think it will. Dr Pringle is very good because he explains everything therefore you know whats happening."
Why would you choose to have Damon Braces?
Damon Braces are the most popular type of brace amongst Angus' teenage and adult patients, for the following reasons.
- Discrete: Damon Braces are designed to be discrete, comfortable and easy to keep clean.
- Aesthetics: Damon Q (metal brace) are smaller than traditional fixed braces and Damon Clear are a lot less conspicuous than traditional fixed braces.
- Time: Fixed braces, like Damon Braces, are the most efficient brace for straightening crooked teeth.
- High-tech: Damon braces are passive self-ligating braces eliminating the needs for elastics and metal ties
Watch this video to see what patient's say about Damon Braces
How much does Damon Brace treatment cost?
Cost of Damon Brace treatment > >
Call the practice now to arrange a consultation
Fareham 01329 226470
Winchester 01962 855151
Rustington 01903 773880


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June 20, 2017
Java Antique Philco radio cabinet re-purposed as a single sink bathroom vanity with new black/white and gray granite. Has a white 13 inch vessel sink with brushed silver faucet and pop-up drain. A new stylish industrial basket provides ample storage underneath. Perfect for small half bath or powder room or tiny home bathroom.
Dimensions: 22 1/2″ wide X 16 1/3″ deep X 33″ tall (top of vanity) or 37 1/2″ tall (to top of sink)


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'In the Window' - Summer Showcase
Featuring Ceramics by Olwen Thomas
19th June 2015 - 18th September 2015
Discovered at New Designers 2014 - Carmarthenshire based Ceramacist Olwen Thomas will be exhibiting a stunning collection of her beautiful and functional vessels.
The Collection which in essence celebrates the role of our foremothers is entitled 'Hen Wlad Fy Mamau' 'Land of my Mothers' (a twist on the Welsh national anthem 'Land of my Fathers') and is heavily influenced by traditional welsh woven textiles referencing strikingly colourful iconic blankets and shawls.
'The patterns are painted directly onto the porcelain paperclay using coloured slips before being hand built into vessels which involves wrapping clay, rather like a blanket.'
Click here to return to the Gate Gallery News page
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God's faithfulness continues
Joshua 1: Moses my servant is dead…In the same way I was with Moses, I'll be with you. I won't give up on you; I won't leave you. Strength! Courage!
Some people cast long shadows: David, King of Israel; Abraham, Father of Faith; Moses, Law Giver. The only leader the people of Israel have ever known is now dead. Getting used to life without the steady guidance of Moses is going to take some getting used to and that's especially true for their new national leader. Joshua's already a proven leader but that leadership has always been under the authority of Moses. As Joshua staggers under the weight of his new responsibility the Lord speaks to him, probably in a way and at a level that Joshua has never before experienced. The great Promise Maker makes a wonderful commitment to him. Moses is gone but God is not. The same God who spoke to Moses now will speak to Joshua. That same Presence will remain. God's faithfulness continues. Today, I thank God for the "Moses figures" in my life. These people have provided me with leadership, advice, and strength. Still, humanity is limited. Things, and people, change. Sometimes, in fact, with the passing of time our roles reverse. As it was for Moses and then Joshua I place the weight of my hope on the firm Rock of my Salvation. He won't give up on me and he won't forsake me.
Take Away: Thank God for people who influence our lives for good, but even more, thank God for his steady faithfulness through the years.


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Studying with us in 2021/22
It is possible that the 2021/22 academic year may be affected by the ongoing disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Any arrangements put in place by the University for the 2021/22 academic year will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, pandemic-related/health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
This four-year degree course has been specifically designed to allow you to undertake an additional year of study which will build stronger creative footings to ensure successful progression through your chosen degree.
Working in a lively and energetic environment, you will be given the freedom to expand your knowledge of practical skills, creative exploration and conceptual development, underpinned by broad critical understanding, academic writing and emerging theoretical principles.
There will be a range of opportunities to work on collaborative projects aimed to develop employability partnerships and to identify the role of developing practitioner. Teaching staff from across both schools will work closely with you throughout the course to prepare you for progression.
The course concludes in a public professional exhibition of your practical work supported by individual websites.
After successful completion of the foundation year, you will have the flexibility to change direction onto a related undergraduate degree programme within Birmingham School of Art or the School of Visual Communication.
Our Fine Art degree course gives you the support of professionals to choose your own creative journey and flourish as an artist, curator, teacher or working in other creative fields. Situated in our historic Grade I-listed art school, based in Margaret Street, you'll enjoy the freedom, space and support needed to establish your own artistic voice.
There are no set pathways to learning and this means you'll have genuine freedom to experiment in any media appropriate to your ideas.
This course encourages you to experiment in or across painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, photography, installation, film and video.
You'll be supported throughout your studies by our experienced and talented tutors and technical staff - all professional artists in their own right.
As well as learning important skills for your future career development from our practical and professional practice modules, you'll also be introduced to the context and curation of art.
You will enjoy our close links to the Ikon Gallery, Ort Gallery, New Art Gallery Walsall and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and be inspired by the studios and galleries set up by former students, such as The Lombard Method, Grand Union, Stryx and Ort Gallery.
The course concludes in a public professional exhibition of your practical work supported by individual websites.
Visit our School site for more student work and extra information.
Our students have gone on to work in jobs such as:
We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
80 UCAS tariff points.
|Minimum overall score of 6.0, with 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in the remaining three skills.
|LEVEL 3 (and above) QUALIFICATIONS
|A Level and Advanced VCE
AS and AS VCE
|Considered with a maximum of 3 other Level 3 qualifications (AS Levels must be in different subject to A-Levels) to obtain 80 pts
Access to HE Diploma
Foundation Studies (Art and Design, and Art, Design & Media)
IBO Certificate in Higher Level
International Baccalaureate Diploma
|Obtain a minimum of 24 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers)
|Pass the Irish Leaving Certificate with a minimum of 80 tariff points, achieved in five Higher level subjects.
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma
Scottish Advanced Higher
|Pass overall (C or above on the core)
UAL Extended Diploma in Art & Design
|Merit overall
UAL Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production & Technology
|Merit overall
UAL Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts
|Merit overall
|Other qualifications
|If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS.
Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website.
Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept.
In addition to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table.
|EU/Non-EU (International) Qualifications
Minimum overall score of 6.0, with 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in the remaining three skills.
If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information.
Applications from mature students (21+) with alternative qualifications and/or considerable work experience will be considered on their merits.
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead. The University reserves the right to increase fees in line with inflation based on the Retail Prices Index or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament up to a maximum of five per cent.
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
You are not required to submit a portfolio for this course.
Our courses include activities such as performance, exhibitions, field trips and production of works or artefacts which may require you to purchase specific equipment, instruments, books, materials, hire of venues and accommodation, or other items. Many of these activities are essential and compulsory parts of your learning experience.
The link below gives you an estimate of the possible costs associated with key activities on your course. Please bear in mind that these are only estimates of costs based on past student experience and feedback. The actual costs could vary considerably (either greater or lower than these estimates) depending on your choices as you progress through the course.
All our students are provided with 100 free pages of printing each year to a maximum total value of £15.
Working in a lively and energetic environment you will be given the freedom to expand your knowledge in conceptual development, practical skills and creative exploration underpinned by broad critical understanding and emerging theoretical principles.
You will work individually and collaboratively to develop a stimulating visual portfolio of work that evidences your enthusiasm for further study within a specific subject area.
BA teaching staff from across both Birmingham School of Art and the School of Visual Communication will work with you throughout the course and you will have full access to all of the University facilities.
The two first semester modules will run in conjunction with each other to enable understanding of the relationship between developing work and potential contexts.
These modules will form the building blocks for future work and will focus on developing confidences with techniques, learning skills and productivity. The two final semester modules will run in conjunction with each other to enable a positive integration between Perspectives on Practice and Creative Realisation.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Understanding Context
20 credits
To reinforce your understanding of the creative industry in context you will be introduced to a number of opportunities across the city and will engage with event partners, such as Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery [BMAG], Ikon, Hippodrome, Eastside Galleries, Type-Talks and further afield.
You will experiment with the design and layout of gathered information, supported by relevant seminars and workshops. Experimenting with layout and physical compilations of information you will produce a zine and/or other production. This will evidence carefully considered documentation techniques alongside an understanding of the word 'context'.
You will be continually encouraged to question the relationship between Visual Arts and Communication and will begin to establish the direction of your work in context.
Creative Development & Production
40 credits
Artists work in a globally influenced, culturally diverse, and technologically advancing world.
Their art is a dynamic combination of materials, methods, concepts, and subjects that challenge traditional boundaries and defy easy definition.
This module will look at experimental approaches to drawing to identify radical new solutions from the perspective of the contemporary world we live in.
Perspectives on Practice
20 credits
During this module you will meet lecturers, researchers and partners from across BCU, the city and further afield to open your understanding of practiced based creative work.
Through lectures and workshops, you will be introduced to the versatility of subject areas in terms of ideas, development, research, materials, techniques and contexts.
Creative Realisation
40 credits
Figuring out how the universe works might be a bit more than we need to do each day but paying attention to the future of the world we live in, is worth exploring.
Creative realisation is not just about the practice of producing creative responses, it is about identifying the factors that generate creative thinking and facilitating the process.
To identify the focus for your project you must research 'Future Horizons' from the rapidly changing world around you - anything that reflects new innovations, e.g. seismic changes, space travel, war, social conflict, internationalisation, environment, technology, architecture, bio-art etc. – whether great or small.
Undergraduate Staff from both Schools will offer guidance on developing a constructive portfolio that affirms your potential for a rewarding creative future.
The first year introduces you to practice and context, workshop methods through projects, seminars and field visits.
You will begin to develop your own language, interests and understanding to enable you to establish a practice. Your practice is supported by presentations, seminar discussions of historical and contemporary themes and ideas, and collaborative practices with other students in the school or faculty.
Modules explained:
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Context, Methods and Making
40 credits
This 14-week module acts as an effective bridge between your prior study and the start of the course recognising the span of the social, cultural and 'life' experiences within your cohort. We employ small group tutorials, group critiques, collaborative group activity and contextual lectures, each of which supports this transition, learning and development. In combination with online library resources, you will introduce you to digital research methods including Moodle and Lynda.com.
Themes and Concepts in Art
20 credits
Themes and Concepts in Art supports and advances the historical and theoretical knowledge that informs your studio practice. It promotes intellectual curiosity and critical reflection to develop your confidence in speaking and writing about art. Using a broad range of different contexts and practice frameworks, this module is designed to help support you towards achieving a self-directed practice through the identification of "themes and concepts" in your own work. Carefully structured sessions will focus on and across approaches to: painting sculpture, drawing, video, film, installation, performance, sound, digital media, photography and print. With the appropriate support, you will also be required to present descriptive accounts and write and submit a 2,000-word essay for assessment.
Establishing Practice
40 credits
The overarching aim is to introduce the skills and understanding necessary to initiate and organise a self-directed fine art practice in relation to contemporary art and historical precedents.
This 13-week core module will enable you to engage, and expand on, the knowledge and skills established in the first two studio-practice modules (supported by your art theory module) to define an individual fine art practice and develop a body of practical work.
To help facilitate the above, and provide an initial starting point, there are three over-arching frameworks to identify with. These may include: 1) Art and Other Worlds 2) Art the Subject 3) Art and Intervention.
Collaborative Project
20 credits
The ability to work collaboratively in a team is a vital employability skill within the Creative Industries. This module is an opportunity to learn and critically reflect on the skills of collaboration by enabling you to create a group project with students from complementary disciplines.
The second year is about further exploration and development, testing out ideas and taking risks.
You will strengthen your own fine art identity through experimentation and reflective discussion in the form of individual and group tutorial sessions. You will also engage in a range of live projects, collaborative activities and placements with the additional option of an international exchange.
Modules explained:
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits):
Developing Practice
40 credits
This studio practice module enables you to build upon the technical, practical, analytical and research skills introduced in Level 4. As a further development and progression of L4 Establishing Practice module, it aims to provide the opportunity to reflect upon your prior approaches to art practice (related to both historical precedents and contemporary art practice), and to further explore how methods and materials are related to meaning and context.
Critical Theories in Art
20 credits
This module focuses on the way in which people have written and thought about art in the 20th and 21st centuries. From a series of 10 weekly lectures, seminars, film screenings and study visits a series of key themes will emerge, articulated around different ways of being an artist. This idea is reflected in the titles of each lecture, ranging from 'Artist as Revolutionary', which looks at the relationship between art and politics, to 'Artist as Digital Native', which looks at the rise of digital culture within art. In this way the module encourages you to bridge theory and practice, enhancing the historical and theoretical knowledge that informs your studio work.
Extending Practice
40 credits
This module enables you to build upon the technical and practical exploration and experimentation from the previous module and apply further rigorous analysis to speculative practical and contextual enquiry and research.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
Collaborative Practice
20 credits
The module is an opportunity to learn and critically reflect on the skills of collaboration by enabling you to create an interdisciplinary project with students from complementary disciplines, or with academic staff. Collaboration is a vital employability skill within the Creative Industries and this module allows you to develop these skills, making use of University facilities and with the support of academic staff. Within this module framework, several kinds of collaborative opportunities are available. For example, with the approval of your supervisor, you can determine a project based on your own interests; your supervisor may set you a predetermined project to enable you to work with other students in a way that is appropriate to your subject area; or there may be opportunities for you to collaborate with staff on research projects. In all cases, you must apply your subject skills to an interdisciplinary project which will be agreed in advance with your supervisor.
Live Project
20 credits
This module provides an opportunity for you to apply your knowledge and skills to an external, professional brief. The brief will be set by an external client/ agency, in consultation with your supervisor, and it could be a 'real life' problem to be solved, or a simulation. It is an opportunity for you to engage in a professional manner with an aspect of your subject area, which contributes to the development of employability skills within the supportive infrastructure of the University. Where appropriate, the project may involve interdisciplinary collaboration with students from other courses. In this way, it reflects the collaborative, flexible nature of employment within the Creative Industries.
Work Placement
20 credits
The purpose of this module is to enable you to develop professional attributes and subject skills through experience in the work place, and to critically reflect upon your learning in that context. You will normally be expected to arrange your own placement, with support from academic staff and ADM Careers+.
Core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Our Professional Practice modules give you the confidence to consolidate your theory and practice and create a body of work which is a platform for your future career.
Our graduates include award-winning professional artists, designers, curators, teachers and professionals within Birmingham's thriving creative industries sector and beyond.
Modules explained:
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Practice and Professional Presentation
60 credits
The Practice and Professional Presentation module builds on the student's prior imaginative, practical and theoretical investigations. This sustained and extended period of individual self-directed study time requires careful planning and organisation. The module is a necessarily extended period of time allowing for deeper level of learning and for the synthesis of accrued theoretical, creative, technical and practical knowledge and skills. This is consolidated in a fully resolved and coherent body of artwork presented at a professional level.
Professional Portfolio
20 credits
This module enables students to develop, synthesise, consolidate and fully resolve their practice to a professional standard, in the form of a verbal and visual presentation. This module clearly relates to the Practice and Professional Presentation and the Major Project modules, encompassing the content from these to then be realised in a 10-15min 'pitch' and an online website portfolio. These transferable skills are highly appropriate to course sequels.
Major Project
40 credits
The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and theoretically informed research project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. It is important that we can support you appropriately, so you will be guided towards choosing a research topic which is relevant to your discipline and in which your lecturers have expertise. The outcome may take the form of a written dissertation or a practice-based portfolio.
On our Fine Art course, you will be encouraged to experiment and investigate ideas which develop your individual creativity.
With no rigid pathways, the course gives you the chance to work in areas such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, photography, film and video.
These independent reviews show what our students really think:
"Birmingham is good But the university is Better! I have loved my experience here and met so many new people. IT is better than what I expected. My course is amazing and the lectures are inspiring. My only advice would be to choose this university."
We are currently establishing a collaborative partnership with the Hong Kong Design Institute which will lead to future cultural visits and project opportunities.
If you are interested in undertaking part of your studies abroad, the Erasmus scheme may be of interest to you. It allows higher education students to study for part of their degree in another European country.
It is open to undergraduates in their second year (or above) and offers a unique opportunity to enhance your CV and experience new cultures. If you study with us you will have access to an Erasmus co-ordinator, who can provide information about which institutions we have links with.
You could progress onto a range of postgraduate studies, including an MA or PGCE. You could also potentially go straight to doctoral research study. The MA Fine Art programme at Margaret Street is a popular choice among graduating students.
For further information on courses Tel: +44 (0)121 331 5595 or go direct to the courses section of the website.
You will learn of range of skills which will be key to enhancing your future employability.
Specifically you will learn to:
You will also learn skills in a range of workshop practices in relation to individual development, including photography, casting, woodwork, metalwork, silk screen, etching, 3D printing, laser cutting, and printed and constructed textiles.
Professional practice guidance will teach you a range of skills such as CV writing; the use of social media and other platforms for self-promotion, presenting yourself and your work in a professional framework using a range of appropriate communication skills, such as video and various types of presentation software.
You will have the option of an international exchange, and the opportunity to get involved in a range of projects and placements.
Our students have recently been on placements with the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, working with and alongside sculptor Rob Olins on a recent production of 'The BFG'.
Students have also worked with the sound artist, Justin Wiggan, exploring the university archives in relation to the School of Art to create site-specific work.
The Fierce Festival and the Flatpack Festival regularly work with our Fine Art students.
OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
Birmingham School of Art has a wide array of links with partner organisations regionally, nationally and internationally. These partnerships will provide work experience opportunities for you and contribute to your learning and teaching activities. Our overseas partnerships often result in opportunities for you to mix with students from different countries and gain different perspectives, as well as opportunities to undertake a period of study overseas.
Regional - Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Ikon Gallery, Eastside Projects, Midlands Art Centre, New Walsall Gallery, The Mead Gallery, VIVID, Capsule, Grand Union, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham Hippodrome, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Library of Birmingham, and primary and secondary schools across the region.
National - Arts Council England, Tate Britain, Tate Modern, Tate Liverpool.
International - Established links with other significant institutions both in Europe and the USA, as well as in Canada, Russia and Japan.
These include: The Sorbonne, the Metz/Pompidou (France); Studio for Electronic Instrumental Music, The Hague (Netherland); Ars Electronica (Austria); University of Cologne, Free University of Berlin, Leipzig Academy of Art (Germany); University of Ljubljana (Slovenia); MIT List Visual Arts Center, Massachusetts College of Art, California Institute of the Arts, University of California (USA); Pacific Centre for Technology and Culture (Canada); Institute of Advanced Media Arts and Sciences (Japan); The Laboratorium (Russia).
Fine Art students like this course because the opportunities for them on graduation are immensely broad, and typically students will have multiple roles and jobs.
For example, graduates continue to work as a practitioner while curating and also go on to further study.
To be able to do this requires confidence, resourcefulness, flexibility and the ability to respond to, and create, opportunity.
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
Our School is particularly popular with students from China, Hong Kong and Singapore.
The school has a Visual Art and Culture top-up course at the Hong Kong Design Institute for BA (Hons) Fine Art students, which began in September 2015.
Our International Office in Shanghai was established in 2007 and we work hard to develop strong working relationships with countries in Asia.
We provide prospective students with a professional and efficient application and student service, and maintain close relationships with former students living in China.
We are the UK's most successful recruiter for art and design in China and Malaysia, and we run courses in Hong Kong and Thailand.
The course provides the ability to study in one of the UK's oldest art schools. You will learn to develop your own creative practice in a thriving creative community in the heart of the UK's second city on a course which mixes traditional surroundings with current international debates.
The ability to develop your own individual practices alongside a range of local institutions and industries will give a unique insight into the culture and markets of the UK.
International students who have a serious interest in studying with us but who perhaps cannot meet the direct entry requirements, academic or English, or who have been out of education for some time, can enter Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC) and begin their degree studies.
BCUIC is part of the global Navitas Group, an internationally recognised education provider, and the partnership allows students to access the University's facilities and services and move seamlessly through to achieving a Bachelor's degree from Birmingham City University.
We are constantly investing in our estate and are currently in the process of spending £340 million on new learning facilities.
Birmingham School of Art (an impressive purpose built Grade 1 listed example of Venetian Gothic architecture) was the first major renovation project undertaken by the university (£5.5m refurbishment). The School provides an incredible resource for the production of art and its associated fields of study. The building has a range of facilities available including studios, workshops, specialist art and design library, bookable spaces and lecture/seminar rooms.
As a practitioner she understands the urgency to 'make' and the excitement and frustration that comes with this. Jo has chosen to lead the Visual Arts and Communication Foundation Course so that she can introduce students to an environment where 'making' can be positively productive and can facilitate learning through creative exploration, providing a bedrock for future study. As an educator she teaches with both academic rigour and humour. Jo designs projects which aim to challenge students to stretch their understanding of art and design and she has admiration for the courage and curiosity of student perseverance.
Specialising in commercial and editorial photography for national and international clients Joe works freelance alongside his work for the University. Experienced in both film and digital photography he is currently working with RED cameras, combining moving and still image. His extensive list of clients include: BBC, British Telecom, Fulham FC, Hyundai, Liverpool FC, Marie Claire, Microsoft, Nivea, the Times, Sotheby's, The Sunday Times Magazine Tesco and the Young Vic Theatre.
Franziska Schenk is an artist and researcher with an MA in Fine Art (with Distinction) and First Class Honours degrees in Fine Art (Birmingham City University), and in Art Education (Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt). A well-qualified, experienced Lecturer in Fine Art at Birmingham City University and Honorary Research Associate at the University of Birmingham.
She is initiator of, and principal investigator on, funded art and science projects focusing on the conversion of nature's iridescent colour to the painter's palette – thereby introducing flow, dynamism, transience and an evolutionary element into painting.
Lee is an artist, designer, researcher and lecturer who works across a range of disciplines including sculpture, books/publications, web technologies, photography and moving image. Lee has worked on a range of funded research projects, edited journals and also has teaching experience covering a broad range of levels and subject areas including Fine Art, Art and Design and MA modules. He is currently undertaking a practice-led PhD at the Royal College of Art.
John Wigley is a graduate of the Sculpture School of the Royal College of Art and scholar of the British School of Rome, with interests in film and object making, exploring temporality and 'still lives'. He has exhibited in the UK, Europe and USA.
He is a working artist, a maker and assembler of objects. He is interested in both the role of an artist and the intellectual and physical space required to develop and sustain a practice.
He teaches into the undergraduate BA (Hons) Fine Art course on the first and second year Establishing and Developing Practice modules, as well as the final year Professional Portfolio module. He is also module leader for two new modules: Collaborative Project and Collaborative Practice. They introduce interdisciplinary practice, where the cross-course sharing of knowledge and skills ensure that students have the experience of working effectively in 'mixed' teams. It involves some innovative learning and teaching, including the use of online teaching platforms.
Linda Stupart is an artist, writer, and educator from Cape Town, South Africa. They completed their PhD at Goldsmiths in 2016, with a project engaged in new considerations of objectification and abjection.
They are interested in the possibilities for writing and making discrete grounded encounters with different kinds of bodies (of knowledge, objects, affect as well as corporeal bodies) as a way to think through less alienated ways of living and thinking together. This comes out of encounters with feminist art, postcolonial, ecological, queer and affect theory, as well as embodied and object-based critical institutional encounters.
Their current work consists of writing, performance, curation, sculpture, drawing, and installation and engages with science fiction, environmental crises, magic, language, desire, and revenge.
Cathy is an artist, writer and academic whose work is concerned with how art can be created and distributed in collaborative partnerships and through the creation of commons. Her work seeks to understand the experience of contemporary conditions through social practice and is realised as digital video, print, installation, public art, publication, text, drawing, performance and participatory works.
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Evolution isn't pretty
Philosophy and sci-fi monsters collide in this latest Ridley Scott directed feature, his first bite at the sci-fi apple since "Blade Runner." The script explores the idea that human life arose from an earth-visiting alien race, but it also seeks to embolden our faith in an all-powerful creator. Two such journeys might dovetail nicely, but at a certain point, the script doesn't know where to take the two ideas.
Approximately 85 years from now, a pair of archaeologists discover cave paintings from around the globe that depict large hominids pointing out a grouping of stars.
"It's an invitation," says scientist Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace), the daughter of missionaries.
Keen to see more, she is one of 17 crew members arriving at a planetary system located 3.46 x 10 to the 14th power (or "10" followed by about 35 zeroes) kilometers from Earth. The voyage requires placing the crew in a 28-month cryostasis, while android David (Michael Fassbender) spends these lonely days studying movies and ancient languages.
When the ship arrives at a faraway moon orbiting a Saturn-like planet, David awakens the mission director, Meredith Vickers, played to the icy hilt by Charlize Theron. After rousting the rest of the crew, Vickers calls a meeting to explain their directive. The trillion-dollar exploration is funded by a private corporation whose elderly CEO (an unrecognizably aged Guy Pearce), hopes their discoveries might extend human life.
Elsewhere, the human drama depends largely upon the skills of Rapace (from the Swedish version of "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo"). She's an unexpected but not unwelcome foil for evil forces, not the least of which are among the crew. Vickers, and to a lesser extent, the ship's captain (portrayed by Idris Elba) demonstrate a lack of regard for human life. Most succumb to infection, parasites or outright attack, but android David correctly observes that Elizabeth demonstrates an uncanny will to survive.
The film begins by emphasizing Elizabeth's desire to get closer to God, but as the action heats up, her quest is all but forgotten.
They find that advanced, very large humanoid creatures created a habitable environment within a group of underground caverns that meander through this hostile moon. The crew's technology for exploring these caverns, and the remnants left behind by the alien race, are breathtaking. Yet, despite the beauty of the film's sets, the cutting-edge thrills are insufficient in both number and chills.
The film demonstrates its kinship to "Alien," with creatures that appear to be that creature's cousins, but lacking scares, the relationship seems tenuous.
Given the sequel that is surely coming, we wish it had dared to let its DNA rip.
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Teresopolis (Brazil), July 19: FC Barcelo star Neymar and the other members of the Brazilian men's football team began gathering here to prepare for the Olympics starting in Rio de Janeiro from August 5.
The 2016 Games present a great opportunity for a Brazilian side fallen on hard times to redeem themselves in the eyes of their football-mad compatriots, reports Efe.
The most recent of Brazil's record five World Cup triumphs was in 2002 and their poor showing last month in the Copa America tourney led to the firing of coach Dunga.
Olympic gold is the one major intertiol honour missing for Brazil and new coach Rogerio Micale seems optimistic of filling that void.
Besides forward Neymar, Micale can rely on 19-year-old phenomenon Gabriel Jesus, who leads the Brazilian first division in scoring.
Since leaving Brazil for Spain in 2013, Neymar, now 24, has become one of the domint figures in intertiol football and is Barcelo's second-highest paid player after Argentine icon Lionel Messi.
Neymar wanted to participate in both the Copa America and the Olympics, but Barcelo magement was unwilling to risk one of their stars getting worn out ahead of the 2016-2017 La Liga season.
Forced to choose, Neymar opted for the Olympics. IANS


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Steve Bates and Saurabh Dubey discuss key disruptors driving change and how the IT group can respond to deliver better business solutions.
The traditional IT operating model featured IT as an order taker. But today's disruptive technologies, the speed of market change, and the influence of savvy stakeholders are necessitating a new model.
On this podcast Steve Bates and Saurabh Dubey, both in KPMG's CIO Advisory practice, sit down to talk about next-gen IT project management. They discuss:
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My first contact with Promark was in 1997. I was watching a Modern Drummer Festival that featured then Pat Metheny drummer Paul Wertico (Google Paul Wertico Modern Drummer Festival 1997). The guy played with fire and creativity and bought tones out of the kit I'd never heard. The highlight for me was when he covered his kit in a bed sheet and started hitting it with these red plastic tubes. I had to have a pair, whatever they were. After some research, I found and ordered my first pair of Promark Tubz. I still have them. In 2011, D'Addario purchased Promark, and they have continued the tradition of innovation that Herb started back in 1957. Promark have the tightest weight and pitch tolerance in the industry. They also pride themselves on being on the forefront of sustainability by planting five trees for every one they cut down. Keeping with their innovative past, Promark released the Select Balance Range in 2015. This simple, but ground- breaking concept has changed the drum stick game!
Promark set out to break down the anatomy of a drumstick. They wanted to change the function without changing the fit. The Select Balance concept utilises two variations in taper that influence the balance point of your stick. The forward balance (2 1/4" taper) was designed to be front heavy and create a feeling of more sound less work. The Rebound Balance (3" taper) was designed to be back heavy for quicker and easier playing, perfect for low volumes and increased touch.
This concept was applied to five of the industry's most popular stick sizes. Here's the Promark sizing with the industry standard equivalents: the 535 or 7A, the 550 or 5A, the 565 or 5A, the 580 or 5A and the 595 or 5B. Each of these sizes is available in Forward Balance (FB) and Rebound Balance (RB). The sticks are all 16" in length at this stage are available in a tear drop wood tip. So a 5A player who would like to try the Forward Balance stick would look for the FBH550TW (Forward Balance Hickory 550 Teardrop Woodtip).
I was lucky enough to try the models listed above. I settled on the 550 as the stick for me and took the FB and the RB into my practice room. I warmed up with the FB and was impressed by how effortless everything felt. The sticks moved and felt like they wanted to hit the drums. The sound was full and I was able to play with power and speed into my snare and around the drums. The sticks also felt straight and nice in my hands.
I moved across to the RB for some stick control and jazz independence practice. I was worried that the sticks would be clunky and loud. Straight away I noticed that the sticks seemed to want to stay low. The sticks helped me to clearly articulate quick and complex sticking patterns. My ghost notes were consistent, and the sticks seem to gravitate or balance just where I wanted them. Impressive.
Now to the gig: Friday night, three sets, jazz, latin and funk with dynamic and thoughtful musicians. I would usually take a set of 7As and a set of 5As to cover this gig. And per usual I'd spend the first three songs of set two trying to adjust to the change in stick. Not this time. I cruised through the gig with two pairs of sticks, the RBH550TW and the FBH550TW. They were the same weight and diameter, just with a different taper. I felt like when the dynamics changed and my approach changed, the sticks came with me. I was able to execute complex, low-level dynamic playing and effortless full sounding back beats. I did this without changing the weight and diameter of my stick. Problem solved. Promark have hit the nail on the head with Select Balance; a well-balanced line of sticks that are intuitive and great to play. They solve a problem many professional players face, and they have simplified the stick game.
For more details on Pro Mark products, head to daddario.com.au.
Hits and Misses
Look great
Feel great
Difference in taper works
Well balanced
No Nylon tips or Hickory tip variation
Stick coding can be a little confusing


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With many of the PGA Tour's best competing in the HSBC Champions this week, this alternate event provides a chance for the circuit's lesser lights to shine.
The Sanderson Farms Championship takes place this week at the Country Club of Jackson in Mississippi. Peter Malnati is the defending champion and Ian Poulter and Angel Cabrera are among those on the start sheet.
The tournament began life in 1968 as the Magnolia State Classic and has always been held as an alternate event. Between 1969 and 1993, it took place in the week of the Masters. Craig Stadler, Luke Donald and Bill Haas are among the former champions.
Last year Peter Malnati secured a maiden win here. It didn't herald great things for him through the rest of the wrap-around season. Although he managed a tie for sixth in the Hyundai Tournament of Champions, he went on to miss 20 cuts through 2016.
As an alternate event, this tournament doesn't carry quite the same incentives as a regular PGA Tour event. It has a smaller purse and the winner doesn't receive an invite to play in next year's Masters. Still, for those in the field, victory could be a career-changer as first prize is over $700,000.
Ian Poulter is on the start sheet as he continues his return from injury. David Toms, David Duval, Angel Cabrera, Geoff Ogilvy and Retief Goosen are other familiar names in the draw.
Ian Poulter swing analysis:
The weather forecast for Jackson looks set pretty fair after Thursday, although there could be some rain to contend with on day one.
Venue: CC of Jackson, Jackson, Mississippi
Date: Oct 27-30
Course stats: par 72, 7,421 yards
Purse: $4,200,000 Winner: $738,000
Defending Champion: Peter Malnati (-18)
TV Coverage:
Thursday 27 – Sky Sports 4 from 7.30pm
Friday 28 – Sky Sports 4 from 7.30pm
Saturday 29 – Sky Sports 4 from 7.30pm
Sunday 30 – Sky Sports 4 from 6.30pm
Player watch:
Patton Kizzire – He was runner-up in the recent Safeway Open so is clearly on good form. He was tied for fourth in this event last year.
Chris Kirk – A former winner of this event, back in 2011, Kirk is the top-ranked player in the field this week. He was eighth in the Safeway Open
Cody Gribble – Another man who enjoyed a good showing in the Safeway Open (tied eighth with Kirk,) he could be an outsider worth watching this week.
Key hole: 16th – A very demanding par-4 of 469 yards. Swamp waits all down the left side of the hole and it cuts in across the fairway some 80 yards short of the green. The safe tee shot is played to the right side of the fairway but this will leave a long shot in. The approach is just as testing as the drive – water waits left and a large bunker guards the putting surface to the right. A par here is a very good score.


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Today you are approximately 10 months and 13 days old. Time flies in a house full of boys, eh? Since Big brother Gabe has been gone this morning (getting evaluated over at the school) I've had a lot of time to spend with you alone.
First, we had breakfast. Daddy left us yummy oatmeal with blended up dates and strawberries and apple chunks on top. You polished off your bowl full and then demanded more from my bowl (using the "all done" sign when you really meant "NOT ALL DONE!")
After that, you crawled around a little while I cleaned up. Your favorite thing to do is crawl past or over any sort of baby/kid toy and head straight for the nearest off-limits area. The open dishwasher (love to play with those knives) the open pantry (love to pull those large cans down onto your toes) the unsecured desk/computer area (Yes! to eating cords)
Without fail, whilst you go adventuring around the house, you'll find something to chew on. Not your binky--that will never do. It must be something forbidden: a silver gum wrapper, a glittery bouncy ball, a misplaced die from a game. Any sort of paper or trash will do in a pinch, but you also gravitate to anything small and hard that would be considered a choking hazard by your mother.
After your adventuring (and after I removed a gum wrapper, a glitter bouncy ball and a die from your mouth) you sat on my lap for some one-on-one time.
We played peek-a-boo, and pat-a-cake and worked on our signing ("more" and "all done"). We practiced saying Mamamamama (which came out sounding suspiciously like Dadadadadada) we gave kisses (I know you weren't trying to make me cry when you bit my cheek really really hard with your razor sharp teeth...seventeen times.) and cuddled and cooed and laughed.
Then you started getting restless and fussy and let me know in no uncertain terms that you'd like to eat and then sleep. Immediately and in that order. So I nursed you, and cuddled you, and tucked you into your crib under Grandma Fae's blankie. (Of course you immediately stood up, cried and reached for me, but we both know you didn't mean it.)
Lot's of Love,


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Maritime Vessels Directory
- Type
- Vehicle Carrier (4)
- Flag
- Malta (4)
- Port
- Companies
Vehicle Carrier | Flag: Malta | Port: VALLETTA
Vehicle Carrier | Flag: Malta | Port: VALLETTA
Vehicle Carrier | Flag: Malta | Port: VALLETTA
Vehicle Carrier | Flag: Malta | Port: VALLETTA
Maritime News
UK Police Questioning Stowaways Involved in Tanker Incident
British police were granted more time to question seven men arrested after hostile stowaways aboard an oil tanker in the English Channel prompted special forces to storm the vessel on Sunday."Officers have been granted more time by Southampton Magistrates Court to question seven men as we continue to lead the investigation into the maritime security incident on board the Nave Andromeda off the coast of the Isle of Wight on Sunday 25 October," police said in a statement.The seven men, who are all Nigerian nationals, were arrested on suspicion of seizing or exercising control of a ship by use of threats or force, and will remain in custody until the evening of Wednesday, October 28.
Gondan Delivers Stern Trawler to Prestfjord
Spanish shipbuilder Gondan said it delivered the factory freezing stern trawler Sunderøy. It is one of the most advanced vessels of its kind, which will be operated by Prestfjord AS, one of Norway's largest fishing and fish farm owners.Built in steel with aluminum superstructure, the stern trawler will operate in Arctic areas, in the Barents Sea and Svalbard waters. Designed by Kongsberg Maritime, the vessel has a length of 77.3 meters and a beam of 17 meters. With an accommodation for 29 people, the freezing trawler will be operated for cod and prawns, as well as their processing.
ABS Updates Its Shuttle Tanker Advisory
Classification society ABS announced Tuesday it has updated its Shuttle Tanker Advisory, offering insights on shuttle tanker design and operation all over the globe, with particular focus on Brazil, the North Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.The Advisory explains how ABS optional notations complement class and statutory requirements to fulfill varying regional and operational requirements. As well as exploring new technologies having an impact on the sector, the Advisory identifies requirements not covered by ABS class services that may be addressed by newbuild specifications or operational policies.
CSSC Marine Service Adds Injection Control Unit Overhaul Service
CSSC Marine Service Co (CMS), the worldwide equipment service subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corp (CSSC), has extended its range of services for WïnGD and RT-Flex two-stroke engines, with the introduction of an injection control unit (ICU) overhaul and testing service. The development marks the first time that OEM-authorized ICU overhaul and testing has been available in China.ICU overhauls are traditionally carried out in two key ports worldwide and often require international shipment of complete ICUs to and from the repair shop at great cost.
Intellian Launches C700 Iridium Certus Maritime Terminal
Touting strong RF performance, Intellian said its newly launched C700 Iridium Certus maritime terminal can deliver out-of-the-box uplink speeds of 352kbps and downlink speeds of 704kbps by default, with equally impressive low-elevation-angle RF efficiency thanks to its unique 12-patch phased array antenna technology. It will support three high-quality, low-latency phone lines simultaneously; and as a solid-state antenna with no moving parts inside, the C700 is especially robust, requiring no scheduled maintenance over its lifetime.