It is also thought to be the process responsible for the observation that blind individuals (for one example) tend to develop exceptional abilities in their other senses to compensate for the additional burdens on cognition.
Cross model reassignment refers to the full-scale replacement of certain types of sensory input for entirely different types. The process by which the blind learn to read Braille provides an example of cross model reassignment whereby it is believed that unused regions of the brain normally dedicated to receiving and processing visual stimuli are transformed into neurological structures capable of processing sensory input from the fingertips.
The Role of Neuroplasticity in Memory and Learning:
Generally, neuroplasticity lies at the root of all human cognitive processes and learning. It is precisely the ability of neurons to form complex interconnected pathways and...
Likewise, the repeated use of established neural pathways results in increasing density of established neural connections by adding more neurons to the exiting pathway.
Alternatively, the brain also engages in a regular and continual process of pruning to eliminate neural pathways that are not used regularly to make room for more useful neural architectural elements. This explains an important aspect of the reason that continual practice of learned fine motor skills and the regular use of established memories through recall is necessary to maintain high levels of learned skills and neuromuscular tasks once learned.
References
Schwartz, J., Begley, S. (2002). The Mind & The Brain: Neuroplasticity and the Power of Mental Force. New York, NY: Harper Perennial.
