IMPACT OF SLEEP IN ACADEMIC SUCCESS OF GRADE 12 HUMANITES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES LEARNERS

Abstract

The perceived impact of sleep on academic success indicates that many respondents frequently experience daytime drowsiness and low energy levels. Most report getting less than seven hours of sleep per night, often due to nighttime activities, and struggle to achieve sufficient restorative sleep for their well-being. Additionally, frequent consumption of caffeinated beverages in the afternoon or evening contributes to difficulty falling asleep. Even students with fewer sleep issues still reported challenges such as increased sleepiness in class, procrastination, drowsiness, low energy during school activities, reduced productivity, and a tendency to cram. These findings emphasize the need for educators to implement policies discouraging in-class sleeping and to promote activities that encourage students to prioritize healthy sleep habits for academic success. This study employed a descriptive method and a quantitative research design to examine the impact of sleep on the academic success of 251 Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students at Immaculada Concepcion College. The primary objectives were to assess students' sleep levels, identify their sleep-related strategies, and analyze the perceived impact of sleep on their academic performance. Data were collected through a virtual survey using researcher-designed questions and a non-probability sampling technique. The survey comprised two sections: (a) statements measuring students' sleep duration and frequency and (b) statements evaluating academic success based on class participation and performance in school activities. The weighted mean was used to analyze and interpret the respondents' sleep levels. The findings revealed that respondents' average sleep duration and frequency was 3.35 ("Often"), while their average academic success in activities and class participation was 3.57 ("Strongly Agree"). This suggests that despite frequently experiencing insufficient sleep, students maintained good academic performance by prioritizing tasks such as timely homework submission, active class participation, and seeking assistance when needed. Conversely, those who were more lenient with late submissions exhibited lower academic success. The study also found that academic performance was influenced by factors such as engaging in nighttime activities, sacrificing sleep for schoolwork, completing assignments on time, and utilizing sleep hours to finish academic tasks. These results highlight the complex relationship between sleep patterns and academic achievement. To improve sleep quality and duration, the following strategies are recommended:

Establish a consistent sleep schedule.

Complete homework and academic tasks without sacrificing sleep.

Manage stress, as high stress levels can disrupt sleep patterns.

Parents should limit phone use at least 30 minutes before bedtime.

Maintain a fixed bedtime and wake-up time to regulate the body's internal clock.

Use time efficiently by balancing rest with schoolwork and completing tasks promptly.

Develop and maintain a healthy body clock through consistent sleep hours.