Abstract
The negative effects of poor sleep habits have been widely studied, although there is littleresearch focusing on the academic impact that poor sleep has among the college student
population, where poor sleep seems to be prevalent. Research studies have consistently
documented that sleep difficulties and daytime tiredness affect more than half of college
students. Daytime naps, pulling "all-nighter" cram sessions, and late bedtimes and rise
times are just a few of the common scenarios that deeply disturb the sleep quality and
quantity of college students. The American Sleep Association (2007) has shown that
sleep is necessary for survival in animals and absolutely essential to humans for support
in their daily functioning. This study sought to examine the relationship between sleep
patterns and academic performance of college students in a mid-size state university
setting in east-central Illinois. Through a quantitative study, the student's sleep quantity
and sleep quality were examined in relation to their academic performance, measured by
grade point average and other self-reported factors that are considered crucial for
academic success, such as attending class. Although the findings of the present study did
not show a great deal of statistical significance, it should be noted that statistically
significant differences were found in grade point average among the short, average and
long sleepers. These findings could serve as a guide for additional research on the target
population. Findings could also potentially equip student affairs professionals with
valuable information to assist them in the development and implementation of a sleep
hygiene education program for students in an effort to improve their overall health and
academic performance.
| Date of Award | 2012 |
|---|---|
| Original language | American English |
| Awarding Institution |
|
| Supervisor | Charles G Eberly (Supervisor) |
ASJC Scopus Subject Areas
- Education