Citizen Journalism Academy seeks candidates for second class / LJWorld.com

Archive for Sunday, March 11, 2007

March 11, 2007

Ever consider being a journalist?

Well, here's your opportunity.

The World Company and the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Kansas University are seeking candidates for the second Citizen Journalism Academy.

CJA fellows will learn from educators and practicing journalists about the processes and standards that help translate community activities and events into "news."

"We were so impressed with the interest and quality of our first group of Citizen Journalists last fall that we decided to hold another session," said Ann Brill, dean of the KU journalism school.

"As journalists, we say that the public has a need to know," Brill said. "As citizens, we say the public has a right to know. In this era of online media, the distinctions between citizens and journalists are blurred. While that can have positive results, it also creates a demand for more communication between journalists and citizens. CJA is our attempt to facilitate that communication."

Fellows will learn about writing, photography and blogging, and get hands-on experience.

Interested in being part of the second class of the Citizen Journalism Academy? Apply online or send an application to Cody Howard, 6News news director, 645 N.H., Lawrence 66044.

In your application, tell us about yourself and why you want to be part of the Citizen Journalism Academy.

The deadline to apply is March 30.

"Class members will get an introduction to a number of different aspects of journalism - from a professional and academic setting," said Cody Howard, news director for 6News.

"By the end of the sessions, Fellows should have a clear understanding of how to gather news and tell a story effectively in different and cutting-edge media."

Fellows also will learn how news decisions are made, the ethics of storytelling, how to ask the right questions and a number of other key topics.

Classes will be on five consecutive Monday evenings, beginning April 23. There is no charge for the class.