The Profile of 2013's Free Schools

The UK Government has recently announced that 102 prospective free schools have been given the go-ahead for 2013. It displays an increase in the adoption of this particular government initiative and so it is perhaps an appropriate time to look at what this means for the landscape of the English schools system.
Now in its third year, the initiative is certainly becoming more popular. The approval system had given permission to 65 schools last year, of which 50 will open this September (2012). The first batch of pioneers in September 2011, however, only consisted of 24.
Who is Setting Them Up?
Of the 102 new free schools eligible for 2013 there is a mixture as to who is/will be behind their establishment. They are all being set up by either those in the education profession already or local communities but the full break down is as follows:
59: Existing education professionals; including teachers, headteachers, educational organisations, existing schools and universities, of which:

• 5 are private schools converting to free schools to access public funding
• 2 are backed by universities

43: Local community groups; including charities and, parent groups
What Are They?
The majority of free schools being approved will be defined as mainstream schools, however there are a number of specialist schools being set up alongside these, as would be expected due to the remit of free schools to satisfy particular local education needs. The schools can be defined as:
85 mainstream schools, of which,

• 40 are primary
• 28 are secondary
• 10 are all through (primary and secondary)
• 5 are for 16-19 year olds
• 1 is for 14-19 year olds
• 1 is for 5-7 year olds (i.e., reception school)

12 alternative provision schools for those who are unable to attend mainstream schools

• 5 special schools
• 2 are all through
• 1 is primary
• 1 is secondary
• 1 is for 14-19 year olds

Perhaps most controversially for the opponents of free schools in particular:
33 are religious schools, of which,

• 20 are faith schools which will be permitted a degree of selectivity in their admissions based upon religious beliefs

The relatively high proportion of religious schools in the mix can be seen to bear out the concerns that religious groups will be more able and more likely to set up free schools. The belief is that this results from the fact that they are likely to already have access to the infrastructure as well as the organisational structure they need to get them up and running, in contrast to private individuals attempting to form organisations themselves from scratch.
Where Are They?
The largest concentration of schools will be in London (34, 1 in 3), followed by the South East and North West. Although one of their aims is to improve the education possibilities in particularly deprived areas, the North East only has 3 opening despite its higher than average levels of depravity. Interestingly there are pockets of the country where there are no new free schools opening at all such as in: the southern counties of Wilts, Dorset, Somerset & Hampshire (including the Isle of Wight); the central midlands (around Warwickshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire etc); South Yorkshire down into Derbyshire; North Yorkshire across into Cumbria.
The full breakdown by region is:

• 34 (33%) - London
• 16 (16%) - South East
• 12 (12%) - North West
• 10 (10%) - East of England
• 9 (9%) - South West
• 7 (7%) - West Midlands
• 7 (7%) - Yorkshire and Humber
• 4 (4%) - East Midlands
• 3 (3%) - North East

The DfE's own research suggests that the Independence awarded to Academy schools in general is yielding dividends with their results seeming to outstrip the rest of the sector whilst the success of their US counterparts in New York also bodes well. However time will tell whether these burgeoning free schools can continue that success and fulfil their remit to plug the specific social and educational gaps in their local areas.

Forensic Science: The Basics

With a large number of criminal investigation shows on TV such as CSI, Criminal Minds and Bones, many people have become fascinated with the forensic science profession. Many do not realize, however, the hard work and dedication that this position requires. Not only is this field extremely competitive, but organizations that work with people in this field look to hire only the best. With that being said, the educational requirements are beginning to get stricter as more and more people are trying to break into the field.
The forensic science field, otherwise known as forensics, includes the use of an extensive range of sciences in order to answer questions that the legal system has, usually regarding a crime of some sort. The legal system turns to them for help with identifying and convicting criminals. It their examinations and findings of forensic data that regularly verifies whether or not the suspects in a crime are guilt or innocent. Their responsibilities include observing the information and evidence of a crime and writing down their findings in order to provide a statement of their discoveries to a court of law. Other tasks include performing physical and chemical investigations on criminal evidence provided by some type of law enforcement organization which can be found at the scene of a crime, on a victim, in some cases, both. People in the forensic science field use an assortment of problem-solving techniques, mathematical ideologies, intricate tools, and microscopic probing methods to clarify the particulars of each part of evidence from a case.
There are a number of different positions that someone in the forensic field can have. Some work in strictly in laboratories testing all the evidence that was found, while others work directly at the scene of the crime in order to collect their analysis. Focuses of the area include clinical work, research, communication, computer sciences and much more. Some people in forensics chose not to specialize in a specific area, but would rather be considered a generalist. Most that choose this option are involved in a number of different tasks involving forensics or are involved in a new or rare forensic area of expertise.
Most people that are in the forensic profession work directly with the law enforcement run by city, county or state governments. If people are lucky enough, they can also work for several federal agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Secret Service; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; the U.S. Postal Service; Health and Human Services; and the Criminal Intelligence Agency. Additionally, forensic scientists may be employed by other organizations outside of the government. They may chose to work in private forensic labs, medical examiners offices, hospitals, toxicology labs, medical examiner or coroner offices, colleges and universities, or as independent consultants.
People in forensics have a tough occupation and in order to stay current on all the new technology and methods, they are often encouraged to take a path of higher education. Unfortunately, the education and training requirements are different for every forensic position and for every state, but almost everyone in the forensic profession has earned at least a bachelors' degree. Many chose to earn their bachelors' degree in biology, chemistry or physical anthropology if their college of choice does not offer a forensic science program. An important factor that people interested in the forensic science fields should know is that the title of the degree they earn is not nearly as important as the courses they take throughout their education. Prospective forensic scientists should take college courses that give them experience in a lab and technological setting, such as biology, chemistry, physics, quantitative analysis, toxicology, computer sciences, psychology, criminal justice courses and statistics.
Depending on the forensic position someone is looking for; they may also be required to further their education by enrolling in a graduate program. Most graduate programs are more specific and will include different divisions of forensic science; therefore, this is the time when most students decide what to specialize in. Many programs allow students to focus on areas such as forensic archeology, forensic pathology, or body identification. Many times, labs require a person to get a masters degree for advanced positions in the forensic field such as a lab technician leader or supervisor, or someone who specializes in DNA analysis or ballistics. Most positions only require a masters' degree; however, people who are interested in teaching should continue on to earn their PhD. Also, everyone in the forensic field are expected to continuously update their training in order to maintain their various certifications and to keep current with all of the new tools, technology and techniques used in the field.
And now, higher education institutions have made it even easier for people to earn a degree in forensic science. A number of schools have created online degree programs that allow students to earn their associates, bachelors or masters degree without having to ever step foot on a college campus. Online programs allow students to complete their work on their own time, which is great for those people who have a full time job, or a family and do not have time to attend class through a traditional college setting. Online programs also benefit students who live in areas that do not have a college nearby. Students could possibly earn their degree from a college that is all the way across the country, if they wanted. That means that students have more options for deciding what degree program is right for them and will give them the best quality education for their specialty. Also, many times online degree programs cost less than a traditional degree program and take less time to complete.
Public Service Degrees has recognized that many people desire the opportunity to go back to school, so we have teamed up with a number of regionally accredited colleges all across the country to help those people reach their goal. All of the programs we offer are 100% online and are offered by colleges that are known for their quality education. Public Service Degrees has several programs specifically for people interested in forensic science, such as a BA Social and Criminal Justice-Forensics or an MBA in Criminal Justice.

Natural Dyes - An Age Old Process Goes Back to Eco-Friendly Roots

Around since ancient times, the process of dyeing textiles has strayed from the natural to environmentally damaging. Pigments from crushed plants rubbed into cloth evolved into use of boiled water mixed with crushed fruits, wild berries and plants to distribute color through fabric. This allowed for a broader range and a more steadfast color on the fabric. With the development of high tech fabrics (nylon and polyester) that do not readily absorb the color from dye water baths, came the creation of synthetic dyes using toxic chemical compounds and heavy metals to more readily 'wash' the color into the fabric.
The use of an exorbitant amount of water for fabric dyeing has continued in today's processes. It is estimated about 75 gallons of water are needed per pound of fabric. Dioxins and mordants (mineral salts that create a chemical link to adhere the dye to the fabric) are part of the toxic run off from synthetic dye processes that find way into ground waters causing damage to rivers, lake and oceans. Approximately 1/5 of industrial pollution stems from textile dyeing. Another key factor in the dyeing process is temperature. Large amounts of energy are used to heat the dyes. Many synthetic dyes are highly toxic to workers, and may cause adverse health effects to those who wear dyed clothes. Problems caused range from skin rashes, headaches and muscle pain to breathing difficulties and even seizures.
Dye Types
The two major types of dyes are natural and synthetic. The natural dyes are pigments extracted from natural substances such as plants, animals, or minerals. Synthetic dyes are chemicals synthesized in a laboratory some of which contain metals.
Synthetic Dyes
Synthetic dyes fit into different classifications as follows;

• Basic - are water-soluble and are used with a mordant. They are not color fast and are generally used for treating fabrics that have already been dyed with acid dyes.


• Direct - adhere without mordants. They are not very bright and have poor colorfastness.


• Mordant or Chrome - are acidic in character. To get the needed bonding actions, sodium or potassium bichromate is added to the dye bath.


• Vat - are insoluble in water and cannot dye fibers directly but need an alkaline solution for them to adhere to the textile fibers.


• Reactive - react with fiber molecules to form a chemical compound. They are applied with an alkaline solution and sometimes heat treatment is used for creating color shades.


• Disperse - are water insoluble. These dyes are ground into a paste or powder that gets dispersed in water dissolving in the fabric fibers.


• Sulfur - are insoluble and made soluble by the help of caustic soda and sodium sulfide. Dyeing is done at high temperature with large quantities of salt so that the color penetrates into the fiber.


• Pigment - need resins and high heat to adhere to the fabric.

The most dangerous and damaging to humans and the environment are Azo Dyes. The largest group of synthetic dyes, they are manufactured using a crude oil base. When put in contact with saliva or perspiration they can release aromatic amines that cause a health concern as they are carcinogenic and easily absorbed into the body.
The least eco damaging of the synthetic dyes are the Low-Impact Fiber-Reactive. These chemically adhere to the fibers of the fabric creating a strong bond hence less dye is wasted in water runoff. Being an expensive dye to use, it is also better to reclaim the dye from the used water rather than discard it. Lower temperatures needed to apply these dyes make them less energy intensive than azo dyes. Low-impact dyes typically do not contain heavy metals or toxins but are still synthetically made from petrochemicals. Not affected by saliva or perspiration they are safer to use than azo dyes but still should be avoided by the chemically sensitive. Because of the wide range of colors that can be created, eco aware clothing companies choose low-impact fiber-reactive dyes to remain environmentally conscience.
Natural Dyes
Natural Dyes consist of colors extracted from plants, earth clays and insects resulting in less harm to the ecosystem. Although they still require metallic salts- aluminum, iron, chromium, and copper- to ensure the color stays on the fabric these benign salts are environmentally friendly.
Most natural dyes are Vegetable Dyes made from plant sources - roots, berries, bark, leaves and wood. The mordants required to adhere them to fabric are again benign salts. Vegetable dyes take a large quantity of dye to thoroughly color fabric and the impact to the environment is dependent on the raw materials used. If the raw materials came from areas heavily fertilized, the impact to the environment is greater. The key is to find natural sources or organically farmed sources which eliminate the negative environmental impact.
One of the most eco-friendly dye ingredients is Clay or Dirt. Clay and Dirt Dyes use minerals and irons from the earth avoiding the use of synthetic ingredients. Sources can easily be found that yield a consistent color. Beautiful colors can be achieved by blending different clays and adding pigments available in nature. Modern developments have improved the colorfastness of this form of dye. The process does not need any form of salt, only natural or biodegradable materials are used to improve the clay's natural dyeing abilities. There is no negative environmental impact including harm to waterways.
Make an Eco-friendly Dye Choice
The purest eco-friendly choice of color textiles is to choose those made from color-grown cotton or natural color wool from sheep and alpaca. But for those of us who like pizazz to our fabrics there are healthier and more eco-friendly alternatives when it comes to dyeing textiles. To avoid environmental damage from toxic waste water runoff and possible health issues steer clear of fabrics using synthetic dyes especially those using azo dyes. Search out color textiles from natural dyes looking for fabrics like organic cotton that use clay dyes or sustainable fabrics like bamboo that use low-impact dyes. Fabrics colored with Natural Dyes come in an extensive palette of beautiful colors while maintaining an eye toward a healthy environment.

Francisco Pizarro Biography

Francisco Pizarro was born in Trujillo, Spain, the illegitimate son of Gonzalo Pizarro who is an infantry colonel and a soldier of some distinction and Francisca Gonzalez. He was wholly neglected by his parents and was never taught how to read nor write. Due to his lack of formal education, his first job is herding his father's swine. Pizarro is also a distant cousin of Hernan Cortes.
On November 10, 1509, Pizarro left Spain in quest for the New World on an expedition to Urabi. He joined Alonso de Qjeda on a disastrous expedition to Colombia. He then accompanied Vasco Nuñez de Balboa in his journey to the Pacific Ocean while he was in Hispaniola in 1510. Pizarro later on arrested the condemned Balboa from the order of the famous explorer's rival, Pedrarias de Ávila. Pizarro then settled down as a lord of Indian serfs in Panama.
Pizarro remained a conquistador having no conquest. He went into partnership with another famous explorer, Diego de Almagro and a priest Luque in quest for the tales of fabulous kingdoms in the south. They were able to fit out a small expedition, of which Pizarro took command.
In 1524, he sailed southward but went no farther than Quemada Point. The three made an agreement which was date March 10, 1526, that all lands, treasures, vassals that they will be discovered will be divided equally between them, Pizarro, Almagro and Lugue. They then organized a second expedition which consists of two ships and they set sail for the South Seas. They have discovered Peru, Pizarro returned to Panama carrying with him many ornaments of gold and silver, specimens of wooled clothes of silky texture and brilliant hues, and lamas or alpacas which they obtained from the natives. Because he was not able to find in Panama a sufficient number of volunteers, he returned to Spain in 1525 and narrated his discoveries before Charles V and his ministers. He described the wealth of the territories and showed the gold and silver ornaments as a proof.
The emperor ordered him to establish a province of New Castile and undertake the southern conquest. So he returned to the New World with his half brothers, Gonzalo, Herando and Juan Pizarro, his cousin Pedro and Martin de Alcantara. They set sail to Peru at the end of 1530 together with his 180 men, of whom 27 were cavalry. Within ten years, Pizarro made the empire of Peru his own.
In 1537, Pizarro's rivalry with Almagro led to a conflict. Cuzco was taken over by Almagro after one of Pizarro's half brother; Juan Pizarro was killed during a revolt. Pizarro wasn't able to fight because of his age, so he sent his brothers to Cuzco to fight Almagro. They killed Almagro but as retaliation, Pizarro was assassinated by one of Almagro's followers in June 1541. Pizarro lived a life of violence and he died a violent and a bloody death.

Technology Based Innovations Capable of Changing the Face of Education

Traditional form of classroom learning is fast giving the way to technology based learning. Different technological innovations like educational CDs, mobile devices, interactive devices, educational software systems and distant learning have proved to be beneficial. These innovations engage each and every student and establish better learning mediums.
If you own a school, you will soon feel the need of integrating these technological innovations with the existing education system. If you have a store dealing in educational products, you must know how to make profits with advanced learning products. Here is a useful discussion in this regard.
Educational CDs
The simple concept of educational CDs is to offer information in an interesting format using audio and video capabilities. The traditional form of textbook learning has constantly failed to trigger the interest of all the students. It is better to teach and explain graphically, with the help of a number of examples. From nursery rhymes and phonics games to mathematics and science lessons, everything can be made interactive and easy to understand using these educational CDs.
Interactive Whiteboards
The technologies like resistive touch screens, electromagnetism, infrared lasers and many others have made interactive whiteboards as great learning mediums for the students. The products can help disabled students to participate in collaboration with other students. Just like educational CDs, these boards make learning extremely interesting by integrating different components. Collaborative engagements of students and mutual discussions are possible with whiteboard presentations. Other technology based products used in conjunction with interactive whiteboards include stylus and projectors.
Laptops and Tablets
In the past few years, the potential use of mobile devices in classroom learning has been identified. These technology products replace the traditional text materials for better performance outputs. Moreover, they are as good as educational CDs in grasping knowledge. The students can browse information related to any subject or topic instantly and prepare better notes, projects and presentations.
Cameras
The use of different types of cameras to enhance classroom learning is in its nascent stage. One good example is that of document camera that can be used to display different documents on large screens. Digital cameras are also being suggested to help the students take pictures related to their lessons and projects.
Distant E-Learning
Finally, the concept of distant learning has been significantly improved with the help of e-learning. These setups allow the students located in different countries to attend classrooms and lectures at distant universities and institutes using web technologies. The internet and use of conference tools and technologies make it possible for the students to ask questions and queries and indulge in group discussions. At the same time, they have the access to the online resources to search for any particular topic simultaneously. Online books, encyclopedias and research papers can be accessed that definitely contribute towards effective learning.
From the educational CDs for primary classes to laptops, cameras and whiteboards for higher class learning, the technological innovations have certainly set numerous milestones. Manufacturers all across the world are engaged in improving the features and functionality of these products.