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Flashlight torches are cheap, robust, familiar and fun and so make interesting devices upon which to base interaction technologies. Computer vision software has been developed that can recognise and distinguish between different flashlight beams and these can be used to activate digital media including audio, video or special effects. The technology appears to 'magically bring to life' objects and areas of the environment merely by shining a torch on them and has been used successfully to enhance visitor attractions such as museum exhibits and displays. This paper considers the potential for using this technology in special needs education, providing a means for children to explore their immediate environment and discover something new. Potential applications for supporting learning are proposed and a feasibility study is presented. Three case examples were conducted to assess the practicalities of configuring interactive learning experiences within the school environment and pupil's responses to the technology.Keywords: flashlights, multimedia interaction device, learning disabilities, interactive learning space The Enlighten interactive flashlights systemFlashlights are excellent tools for exploration and discovery, particularly in darkened environments, and the pools of light they cast focus attention and provide immediate topics for discussion. They are readily available in a variety of physical forms (sizes, shapes weights, powers and designs) and mountings (including handheld, head-mounted, stand mounted and vehicle mounted). They are also relatively safe, in terms of being shone into eyes and onto delicate surfaces.Enlighten is a novel interaction system that uses ordinary flashlight torches to explore and interact with displays and objects in the environment. The user simply shines an ordinary torch over the surface of interest. When the torch beam is positioned over one of a set of pre-defined targets, the system recognises the flashlight and triggers the appropriate system response . Responses can include any computer-driven effect such as playing an audio recording or video sequence, switching on a machine or triggering a special effect.

A BSTRACTThe education of pupils with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) has gradually improved, due to a range of new initiatives and the introduction of the national curriculum. However, it is widely recognised that some pupils have a wide range of early specific and complex needs that are not always met.This paper describes a new early curriculum for selfdevelopment being implemented at the Shepherd School, which is unanimously supported by therapists, parents and teachers. It is suggested that,for pupils with PMLD, the new revised framework could provide a more relevant broad and balanced curriculum, fulfilling individual needs, and ultimately lead to effective access to the national curriculum.

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