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Are you interested in today's changing media? Would you be willing to share your insights and experiences with our journalists and the public about an issue that concerns all of us?

The World Company and Kansas University's William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications are seeking participants for the fourth annual Citizen Journalism Academy.

New this year, the course will focus on the economy, specifically the impact of the current downturn, and seek to provide information for overcoming challenges when money is tight and costs are on the rise in both the public and private sectors.

"The media tell the story of economic change on a daily basis, but we'd like to explore some new ideas and hear from more people about the impact of rising gas prices, the mortgage crisis, the cost to feed, educate and provide medical care for your families," said Ann Brill, dean of the KU School of Journalism. "This session of the Citizen Journalism Academy may be the most important session we've done yet."

If you have been affected by the economic situation as a consumer, public official, businessperson, student or in another role, tell us in your application how you've been affected and how you've responded to it. If you have a background or expertise in areas that could contribute to the analysis, explanation, story development and blogs related to this topic, please include that in your application.

"This year's Academy will continue to provide class members with insight and experience in real-world journalism," said Cody Howard, 6News news director. "With a focus on the current state of the economy, CJA participants will have the opportunity to play a role in providing different voices and perspectives in coverage of this critical topic."

The class will also teach participants how news decisions are made, how to ask the right questions, explore the ethics of storytelling and touch on a number of other key topics.

Applications are available online by clicking here through 5 p.m. Sept. 5. Or candidates can send an application to Cody Howard, 6News news director, 645 N.H., Lawrence, KS 66044.

The class will be selected the week of Sept. 15. It runs for five consecutive Monday evenings, from Sept. 29 through Oct. 27. There is no charge.