Learning libras in health context during the pandemic period: an experience report

Abstract

Introduction: Historically, the Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) faces obstacles to gain visibility. In the field of health, the existing difficulties become even more accentuated due to the lack of knowledge of professionals and the lack of an inclusive training, due to the absence of teaching Libras in academic life. Thus, many deaf people stop attending health units, or when they do, they leave dissatisfied with the service provided to them. Objective: This experience report describes the realization of the Libras mini-course for students of the Centro Universitário Barão de Mauá in 2021, and the perception of its organizers. Methodology: The Libras classes were held online, due to the COVID-19 pandemic period, totaling 30 hours. Results: The course aims to reduce the exclusion of the deaf in access to health services and provided to the participants, in addition to learning Libras, greater knowledge about the experience and the needs of the deaf in society. Conclusion: This initiative contributed to a more inclusive training of medical students, reducing the vulnerability of this population.