Description
Sensory Processing Measure, Second Edition (SPM-2)
Understanding sensory processing across the lifespan requires thoughtful assessment, clinical reasoning and an appreciation of how sensory experiences influence everyday participation.
This comprehensive six-lesson course provides occupational therapists and allied health professionals with a structured introduction to the Sensory Processing Measure, Second Edition (SPM-2), exploring its theoretical foundations, structure and practical considerations for administration, scoring and interpretation.
Grounded in Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) theory, the course examines how the SPM-2 considers sensory systems, praxis and social participation across different age groups and environments, from infancy through older adulthood.
Participants will explore how to select appropriate assessment forms and respondents, understand standardised administration procedures, and develop their knowledge of scoring concepts, including raw scores, T scores, interpretive ranges and DIF scores.
The course also highlights the importance of interpreting results within the individual’s wider context, integrating information from clinical observations, occupational profiles and other assessments rather than relying on scores alone.
Through clinical examples, including a detailed case study, participants will explore how to communicate findings clearly, consider SPM-2 Quick Tips and use collaborative, person-centred approaches to inform meaningful support and intervention planning.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
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Describe the theoretical foundations and structure of the SPM-2, including its relationship to Ayres Sensory Integration® theory, sensory systems, praxis, social participation and lifespan coverage.
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Identify appropriate SPM-2 forms and respondents based on age, environment and assessment context, including caregiver, professional and self-report perspectives.
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Explain the principles of appropriate SPM-2 administration, including standardised procedures, respondent guidance, accessibility considerations and the importance of following the official assessment manual.
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Understand the SPM-2 scoring process, including raw scores, T scores, interpretive ranges, Sensory Total scores and DIF scores, alongside considerations for missing or inconsistent responses.
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Interpret SPM-2 findings within a wider clinical context, recognising the importance of individual experiences, environmental influences, clinical observations and additional assessment information when informing intervention planning.
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Explore approaches to communicating assessment findings and planning support, including the use of clinical case examples, SPM-2 Quick Tips and the PEAR TREE™ Lens to support collaborative, person-centred decision-making and meaningful participation.
Important Information: Course Scope and Assessment Materials
Please note: This course provides comprehensive educational information and guidance on the Sensory Processing Measure, Second Edition (SPM-2), including its structure, administration principles, scoring concepts, interpretation and clinical applications.
The SPM-2 assessment tool, assessment forms, manuals, scoring materials and any required licences are not included with this course.
This course is designed to develop knowledge and understanding of the SPM-2.
