M. Isabel Besser Verastegui

M. Isabel Besser Verastegui is the co-lead of the Arts in Education program and a Teaching Specialist. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts from the University of Concepción and a Bachelor’s in Education from Universidad del Desarrollo in Chile. Additionally, she earned her Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Minnesota.

With nearly a decade of experience as a Visual Arts teacher in elementary and middle school settings in Chile, Besser Verastegui has a deep commitment to arts education. Her research interests focuses on aesthetics, particularly the pedagogical decisions arts teachers make regarding pair feedback on students' artworks and the nature of these interactions. She is also interested in student-teaching experiences in the arts and the integration of social justice principles in education.

What students can expect from me?

As an instructor, I strive to support students in multiple ways. I foster an environment that encourages critical thinking and reflection, creating space for meaningful discussions and personal reflections about their learnings. Feedback is a key part of my teaching approach—students can expect detailed, constructive feedback on their work, both in class and through multimodal support. While I provide guidance, I also value student independence, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. Communication is at the heart of my teaching philosophy. My classes are designed to cultivate strong communication skills and emphasize their importance in both academic and professional settings.

Associations/Memberships

National Art Education Association (NAEA)
American Educational Studies Association (AESA)