Cross-modal transfer (CMT) occurs when a person (or animal) learns to perform a task in response to cues in one sensory modality (e.g., audition) and then learns an essentially similar task in response to cues of a different modality (e.g., vision). The rate of learning the second task is faster than it would be without having had the prior training experience. Dr. Delay is studying the effects of post-injury, cross-modal transfer of learning on recovery of behavioral function following brain damage. His early studies have already shown, for example, that prior training to an auditory stimulus aids in the recovery of ability to detect a change in light intensity following damage to the visual areas of the cerebral cortex. This research is helping us understand the more general conditions (e.g., cue characteristics) necessary for CMT to enhance behavioral recovery after brain injury. These experiments also provide insights into brain-behavior relationships which, ultimately, will contribute to the foundation of clinical rehabilitation programs.
