Scientists have long known that sleep deprivation affects critical thinking skills, our ability to work and make important decisions. But can it dull a student’s interest in learning?
A new study from the University of Arizona will investigate whether a lack of sleep dulls a student’s potential interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. Michelle Perfect is a professor at UA’s College of Education and a lead researcher on the project.
“We wanted the kids to be excited about careers early on in their educational experience" Perfect said. "So, 4th and 5th grade became kind of a shift before they lose interest in STEM and before sleep habits significantly decline going into middle school.”
The study received 1.2 million dollars from the National Science Foundation. Partnering with the Catalina Foothills School District, researchers aim to measure five hundred fourth and fifth graders during a three-year period.
Each student will receive a tablet for assignments and devices to monitor sleep patterns. Along with collecting data in students, teachers and parents hope that participating in research will increase the interest of STEM in elementary students.
