Book Review: Shin Yi Chew and Lee Luan Ng (2021). Interpersonal Interactions and Language Learning: Face-to-Face vs. Computer-Mediated Communication. Palgrave Macmillan

Abstract

The content of this book can be fully appreciated within the context of Malaysia, a country that is home to approximately thirty-four million people with multi-ethnic backgrounds. While the official language is Malay, a multitude of languages are spoken in Malaysia. The country aspires to educate professionally competent citizens in order to increase their opportunities for advancement and to enhance the country’s ability for international relations and international trade. Rashid et al. (2017) point out that educational reform initiatives in Malaysia have often focused on language policy that places the English language at the center of curricular changes as English is viewed as the tool that may make it possible for the country to keep pace with its economic objectives. Within this view, English teachers have become key players in the implementation of educational reforms.