Hebb’s theory

• Hebb's theory suggests that learning causes synaptic connections between groups of neurons to become stronger, a process known as plasticity.
• Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to adapt and change.
• Structural plasticity refers to changes in the brain's physical structure due to experiences or memories.
• Functional plasticity is when brain functions move from damaged area to undamaged area.
• According to Hebb, when we learn something new, neurons make new connections between themselves and the brain.
• Hebb described the brain as 'plastic' because it can adapt and change structure as well as forming new connections.
• Synaptic connections become stronger when in the brain when we learn something new.
• Hebb's theory is scientific as it is based on brain function, providing an objective basis for understanding behaviour.
• Hebb's theory can be applied to learning as it suggests that the environment in which children learn is very important.
• Hebb and his daughter raised pet rats and found that those in a more stimulating environment were able to complete a maze.
• Hebb's theory reduces learning to a neuronal level, ignoring other levels of understanding such as Piaget's ideas about accommodation and how it moves learning forwards.