Evaluation of the Communicability of Virtual Learning Environment Interfaces for Deaf Students

The purpose of this article is to assess a Bilingual Libras (Brazilian Sign Language)/Portuguese Virtual Learning Environment that includes deaf users. Based on the growing debate in the Distance Learning field regarding inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities, it aims to highlight that linguistic and cultural characteristics of deaf individuals should be taken into consideration when using technology tools in educational environments. The data used in this article come from a doctoral thesis about to be completed, and confirm the need to sort out the limitations of usability and communicability of virtual environments. Participating users, such as deaf students, confirm the importance of creating a Bilingual Guide for a safer and more effective use of the environment.