Introducing the JLoad: A Java Learning Object to Assist the Deaf

Growing demand for computer programmers presents a good opportunity for better paying jobs for those who are deaf. Our online java programming course designed for the deaf has staggering dropout rates. We introduce the JLoad, an e-learning object designed to smooth the learning curve of a remote deaf Java learner. JLoad has a simple IDE and collaboration tools to enable asynchronous and remote situated student monitoring and assistance. Such collaboration involves student, tutors and translators. We presented JLoad´s prototypes to a community of deaf programmers and tutor for early validation. We discuss how they received JLoad and improved its prototypes.