Assistive Technology Assessment

4. MPT model

The MPT (Matching Person and Technology) model was developed in 1989 by Dr Maria Scherer, Director of the Institute for Matching Person & Technology.

The core of this model is an individualised approach to the person, the selection of the most appropriate assistive technology, and its successful use.

The model focuses on three main areas:

• personal and psychosocial characteristics of the user
• environmental factors where the assistive technology is used
• functions and features of the proposed assistive technology solution.

The characteristics within these three areas are interconnected and are extremely important for assessment, as they can have a positive or negative impact on the use of the technology. Although a particular technology may appear to be a perfect solution for an individual, if it does not meet the person's needs or the person does not receive the necessary support, the technology will be useless, rejected, or inadequately used (Matching Person & Technology).

MPT also identifies potential barriers to optimal technology use, targeted areas for education to ensure optimal use, and potential additional support that can enhance usage. After the person receives the most suitable technology for their needs, MPT forms are completed multiple times following the acquisition of assistive technology to assess changes in perceived abilities, quality of life, or subjective well-being, and various psychosocial factors such as participation, support, and user mood.

This assessment model is based on collaboration between the expert and the individual. It consists of a series of assessment instruments, worksheets, observation sheets, and evaluation sheets.

Each instrument is divided into two parts:

• the first part is intended for the service provider (expert)
• the second part is intended for the user.

The instruments have shown high reliability and validity, and are often used in research. MPT assessment instruments are intended for persons with disabilities over 15 years of age. Instructions for application and assessment sheets in English are available at the link.