Trajetos formativos e práticas educativas: a atuação dos intérpretes de Libras-Português na EPT

Abstract

The Sign Language Interpreter-Portuguese (TILSP) mediates communication between deaf and hearing individuals. TILSP facilitates access to information and social participation for the deaf, significantly contributing to inclusion and accessibility in various contexts, including education. TILSP goes beyond mere translation of words from one language to another, also conveying emotions, intentions, and cultural nuances present in communication. This study, titled “Training paths and educational practices: the performance of Libras interpreters - Portuguese at EPT,” explores the educational pathways, knowledge, challenges, and potentials of Sign Language Interpreters-Portuguese (TILSP) and their implications for professional practice within the context of Professional and Technological Education (EPT). The central aim of the research is to investigate the educational pathways and professional practices of TILSP, analyzing how these aspects influence the inclusion of deaf students considering the challenges and potentials of the profession. Specific objectives include mapping the educational pathways of TILSP working in EPT, analyzing the scientific literature on their performance, exploring the challenges and potentials faced by these professionals in classrooms, and developing an educational product to enhance their institutional performance. This study is part of the Postgraduate Program in Professional and Technological Education (PROFEPT) in Research Line 1: Educational Practices in Professional and Technological Education (EPT). The adopted methodological approach is qualitative, with data collection conducted through semi-structured interviews, allowing for a detailed analysis of participants’ experiences and perceptions. Content analysis was employed for data processing, crucial for examining discourses and addressing the challenges and potentialities of TILSP professionals. The obtained results aimed to enhance the professional practice of TILSPs and the quality of inclusive education for deaf students in Vocational and Technical Education (VTE), with the goal of improving inclusive educational practices. At the conclusion of the research, an educational product was developed for the continuous training of TILSPs, based on the difficulties and needs identified during the study, aiming to enhance the quality of deaf student inclusion and improve TILSP professional practice in VTE. The developed product, a MOOC course, was titled “The Sign Language Interpreter and Their Professional”.