Jordan O’Connell, a second-year Doctor of Education student at Winona State University (WSU), is making waves in the education field. Co-authoring a chapter with Dr. Steven Baule titled “Harnessing Generative AI for Educator Professional Development” (published in Teachers’ Roles and Perspectives on AI Integration in Schools, IGI Global, 2025), O’Connell explores how AI technologies are reshaping teacher training and professional growth.
The chapter highlights innovative ways generative AI tools can provide personalized coaching, streamline administrative tasks, and enhance instructional design. O’Connell reflects on how these tools could democratize access to high-quality professional development, benefiting educators and administrators navigating a rapidly changing landscape.
Jordan’s journey to this topic was inspired by the transformative potential of generative AI chatbots and their impact on higher education. This inspiration, coupled with the rich collaborative environment of WSU’s Ed. D. program, sparked his research. He credits Dr. Baule’s mentorship and the program’s emphasis on emerging educational technologies for shaping his ideas.
“Dr. Baule’s ability to frame the challenges in education from K-12 to higher ed brought incredible depth to our work,” O’Connell shares. “The program’s faculty have been incredibly encouraging and provide a community of support that continues to inspire me.”
O’Connell’s academic background is equally impressive. With over 13 years of experience as a community college leader, instructional designer, and student success coach, he has a proven record of using technology to improve student outcomes. His expertise extends beyond the classroom, with frequent presentations at educational conferences and a growing list of published works in eCampus News and Essays in Education.
Looking ahead, O’Connell and Dr. Baule plan to present their research throughout the spring semester, sharing their insights on the future of professional development in education.
Explore how WSU’s Doctor of Education program fosters innovation and collaboration on our website or by contacting Dr. Baule at steven.baule@winona.edu.