Sleep and academic performance: measuring the impact of sleep. (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hershner, Shelley
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in behavioral sciences. Volume 33(2020)
• Page Start: 51
• Page End: 56
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: Psychology -- Periodicals; 150.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2019.11.009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-1546

Abstract

Highlights: The consistency of sleep patterns may have a greater impact on GPA than sleep duration. Students at risk of academic failure should be screened for a co-morbid sleep disorder. Morning classes are associated with higher grades. Schools need to develop sleep friendly policies and interventions. In order to do this, institutions must understand which aspects of sleep have the greatest impact on academic performance. The frequency of sleep disturbances may impact student retention. Abstract : Sleep impacts academic performance. Past studies focused on the negative influence of shorter sleep duration and poor sleep quality on GPA. New novel sleep measures have emerged. Sleep consistency measures how likely a student is to be awake or asleep at the same time each day. Students with greater sleep consistency have better academic performance. A morning circadian preference and earlier classes are associated with higher grades. Later high school start times may increase sleep duration, but do not consistently increase GPA, but improve mood and well-being. If a student is struggling academically, screening for a sleep disorder is vital. Devices are under development which may allow students to better monitor their sleep habits, sleep consistency, chronotype and sleep behaviors. For the proactive student, these devices may enhance sleep behaviors and academic performance. Schools need to develop sleep friendly policies and interventions to promote healthy sleep for their students.