Jennifer Parker
Dr. Parker is well-known for her work as a co-creator of the 21things4educators and 21things4students web sites. More recently, her work in AI garnered the FLUF(F) Test, a widely adopted framework for improving prompt design and critically evaluating generative AI outputs. Her research extends into modern adult learning identities through the EMP Model—which categorizes adults as Emerging, Mentee, or Peer learners—and the Four C’s approach (Co-Learning, Creation-Centered Learning, Critical Critique, and Career Connection), developed in collaboration with Dr. Stefani Boutelier and Dr. Madeline Craig. Their work, featured in The Teaching Professor and the Online Learning Consortium, has reshaped contemporary andragogy for AI-infused learning environments.
Dr. Parker also co-developed the AI Balance Continuum, a facilitation tool that helps instructors and leaders meet adults where they are—whether AI-resistant, AI-curious, or AI-ready - while building psychological safety and responsible practice. She further supports institutions with the Human AI Competency Roadmap, a seven-question guide that frames ethical, reflective AI integration across classrooms and workplaces.
Her books reflect her commitment to practical, usable frameworks:
- Making the Move with EdTech: 10 Strategies to Scale Up Your In-Person, Hybrid, and Remote Learning (2023), co-authored with Troy Hicks and Kate Grunow, helps educators upscale their favorite teaching strategies (e.g. gallery walks, exit tickets, etc.) with innovative uses of ed tech. The book was honored with the Ben Franklin Silver Award for Educational Publishing.
- The Coach’s Compass: Navigating Tiered Coaching in a PLC at Work (2026), co-authored with Tesha Ferriby Thomas, presents a guidebook for coaches to incorporate the MTSS-C tiered coaching model while managing the Coaching Quadrants of trust and relationships, goals and outcomes, teaching and modeling, and support and resources.
Dr. Parker’s scholarship and thought leadership have been featured in The Teaching Professor, OLC Thought Leadership, Tech & Learning Magazine, and the Journal of Applied Instructional Design. A longtime advocate for clarity, ethical design, and accessible AI literacy, she works with teams across higher education and K-12 systems to build professional learning cultures that are sustainable, collaborative, and future-ready.
“My work is about giving people tools they can actually use—to ask better questions, to communicate with clarity, and to lead learning with confidence. When educators feel supported, students and communities benefit. That’s the long arc I’m committed to.”
For keynotes, workshops, consulting, and media requests, visit www.drjenniferparker.com.
• Social and Behavioral Research - Basic/Refresher
• Harnessing AI for Teaching and Learning Faculty Learning Community
• Central Michigan University
• Eastern Michigan University
• Best Digital Curriculum
• Top Ed Tech Leaders to Watch
• ISTE Digital Leader of the Year
• University of Florida Rookie of the Year
• Leadership Macomb
• ISTE
• ASCD
• FETC
• CoSN
• MACUL
• TCEA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying deeply connected to strong professional networks and learning communities that continually challenge and inspire me. My work has always been grounded in service, with a focus on coaching others and supporting meaningful, relevant learning for the people I serve. Consistency, curiosity, and a commitment to helping others grow have been the foundation of my journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came from my father, who encouraged me to move into communication and training because he saw that as one of my natural strengths. That guidance led me to pursue a path in business education, which ultimately shaped my career in training, instructional design, and professional learning. Looking back, his insight helped me align my work with what I do best—helping others grow and succeed.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Build and stay engaged in strong professional networks and learning communities—they’ll support your growth and open unexpected doors. Focus on the human side of the work, making learning meaningful and practical rather than just adding more content or tools. Stay curious about emerging technologies like AI, and develop the judgment and frameworks to use them thoughtfully and responsibly.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges right now is keeping pace with rapidly evolving technology and AI, while also giving adult learners the time and psychological safety they need to experiment, adapt, and grow. At the same time, budget-driven cuts to coaching and professional learning roles make sustained support more difficult, even though it’s more necessary than ever. The opportunity lies in creating practical, accessible AI literacy tools and frameworks—such as structured evaluation models and prompt critique strategies—that help educators use AI thoughtfully and effectively. There’s also tremendous potential in open educational resources and coaching models that position educators as co-creators with AI, not just consumers of new tools.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me, both professionally and personally, center on the human side of learning and growth. I believe in collaboration across roles and perspectives, approaching work with humility, and staying grounded in service-focused impact rather than recognition. I also prioritize creating psychological safety so people feel comfortable taking risks, asking questions, and learning openly. Above all, I care about making learning relevant and meaningful for adult learners, ensuring that time and effort translate into real, lasting growth.