Why Are We Still Doing That?: Positive Alternatives to Problematic Teaching Practices

From cover to cover, this book is less than 150 pages in length. Within each chapter, Himmele and Himmele afford a brief, historical context and a research-practitioner connection to the presented problematic teaching practices and follow up with three or more optimistic alternatives for teachers to consider. Having read several books of this nature, what stands out about this particular source is the tone of the authors. As a reader, I felt as though I were having a consoling conversation with the authors where they identified the major issues within the field that I’ve been an unknowing proponent of, but extended a level of grace and sympathy within that identification. Rather than taking an accusatory and haughty stance, Himmele and Himmele openly admit to the times they’ve fallen short, learned from their mistakes, and share out their ideas in a way that makes me feel as though any reader can easily do the same. This impression is deeply supported by the manner in which the two educators close out the book with an emphasis on the importance of “grace” and “togetherness.”

Dr.’s Himmele and Himmele write from experiences backed by proven research. The book is a great book for all educators newly certified and seasoned veterans still in the field. This would make a great gift for newly graduated teachers and would be a great add-on for any induction trainings.

Reading this now and it has my mind examining the 21 years I have spent in education while validating and refining my plan moving forward. What a refreshing, respectful, resourceful must read! Wonderful tools and researched based ideas. Every teacher should have this book.

I was disappointed in this book, was expecting to see something new, but there was no new information and it is mostly aimed at the elementary level.

The Himmele's have done it again! Another book that provides ideas that every classroom teacher can implement immediately, backed by years of research and experience.

This is a great book that addresses some 'outdated' practices. What I liked was not only did they say 'don't do that anymore' they also gave viable alternatives. Very useful book and I wish all teachers would read it.