Association between sleep patterns and academic performance

Abstract

Most university students have experienced sleepiness during class hours. They are more likely to face problems with learning and focusing on class and it may affect their academic performance. Hence, the aim of this study is to find out the relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance among semester five Science Mathematics undergraduates of UiTM Kelantan branch. Fifty students were chosen randomly as the respondents. This study employed descriptive analysis and chi-square test of independence was used to explore the association between sleep pattern and academic performance. It was found that the respondents indicate to have different sleep patterns either in respects of wake time, bedtime or daytime nap and sleep duration. The study found that the patterns of sleep and wakefulness varies widely between respondent, and it was influenced by many causes which are phone, caffeinated drinks and health problem. The findings also found that the respondents' academic performance, as measured by CGPA was significantly affected by their sleep patterns. It can be concluded that majority of the students managed to have a good sleep duration in which the total of sleep duration is related to their wake time, bedtime and daytime nap. In terms of recommendations, students who are having poor sleep patterns should manage their wake time, bedtime and daytime nap properly if they want to have a better sleep duration, students should avoid from using mobile phone at least 1 hour before bedtime and students should improve their sleep patterns to increase their academic performance.