Understanding Teachers' Empathy for Late Sleeper Students in Classrooms

As a seasoned educator, I have evolved in my approach to accommodate the diverse needs of my students, especially those who fall asleep in class. Historically, I was less forgiving, often reprimanding or asking such students to leave if the lesson was deemed boring. However, this perspective underwent a significant transformation due to an increased understanding of the biological and psychological factors affecting adolescent sleep.

The Importance of Sleep for Adolescents

Research indicates that adolescents are undergoing a shift in their body clocks, making them naturally inclined to stay awake later and sleep later. This is a stage of life characterized by a heightened need for sleep, often more than adults, but frequently disrupted by extracurricular activities, schoolwork, and part-time jobs. Several studies, such as those conducted by Czeisler et al. (2020), support the notion that the internal biological clock, or circadian rhythm, in adolescents is different from that of adults, leading to a delay in the onset of sleepiness in the evening and the natural awakening in the morning. This phase delay is a normal part of adolescence and can be exacerbated by the external pressures of contemporary life.

The Impact of Evening Shift Work

It is not uncommon to encounter college students juggling multiple responsibilities that include part-time jobs, family duties, and academic commitments. These students often find themselves working the night shift and attending classes in the early hours of the morning. Such a schedule can have severe consequences on their sleep patterns, disrupting the natural circadian rhythm and leading to severe sleep deprivation. The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health has documented the physiological and psychological impacts of disrupted sleep on individuals.

A Personal Insight

A pivotal moment came about a decade ago when a student, whom I perceived as uninterested and inattentive, turned out to be a night shift security guard. His shift ended at three in the morning, and he worked tirelessly to attend my class in the morning before heading home to rest. This experience brought to light the significant challenge many students face, balancing work and class schedules with their need for sleep. It underscored the importance of empathy and understanding in classroom management.

Balancing Sympathy and Classroom Expectations

While empathy is crucial, it is equally important to set clear expectations and provide support to help students manage their sleep needs. Here are a few strategies that can be effective:

Schedule Class Times with Student Needs in Mind: When possible, scheduling classes for times when students are more alert can significantly improve their engagement and understanding of the material. Create a Supportive Classroom Environment: Encouraging open discussions about the challenges students face can foster a supportive and understanding classroom culture. Offer Flexible Assignments: Providing opportunities for students to submit assignments or attend classes at alternative times can alleviate some of the pressures they face. Promote Healthy Sleep Practices: Education on the importance of sleep and the development of strategies to promote better sleep habits can empower students to make healthier choices.

Conclusion

The evolving understanding of adolescent sleep and the complexities introduced by evening shift work necessitates a more compassionate and informed approach from teachers. By recognizing the genuine challenges faced by late sleeper students, we can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters both academic success and well-being.

References:

Czeisler, C. A., Klerman, E. B., Martin, E. B., Phelan, S. E., Rizzo, J. F., Brown, E. N., ... Dijk, D. J. (2020). Aging and human circadian periods. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 117(51), 32195-32200.

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2019).