Sleep patterns and awareness in medical imaging students using wearable technology

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Authors

O’Callahan, Kait
Butson, R.
Mair, J.

Degree

Grantor

Date

2024-08-09

Supervisors

Type

Journal Article

Ngā Upoko Tukutuku (Māori subject headings)

Keyword

New Zealand
medical imaging students
tertiary students
sleep quality
well being
fatigue
biometrics

Citation

O'Callahan, K., Butson, R., & Mair, J. (2024). Sleep patterns and awareness in medical imaging students using wearable technology. Health Education in Practice: Journal of Research for Professional Learning, 7(1), 1-18. https://doi.org/10.33966/hepj.7.1.18045

Abstract

PURPOSE This study explores the relationship between sleep quality and fatigue in medical imaging students using biometric devices. It examines the impact that objectively measuring and discussing sleep data has on students’ understanding and appreciation of the role of sleep in their academic and professional practices. DESIGN The study adopts a case-based approach, with participants engaging in open collaborative discussions and personal investigation of their sleep data. Biometric devices were used to record sleep data over the course of one semester. FINDINGS Results show that while all students recognised the importance of sleep, they had very little knowledge about sleep patterns, the effects of sleep on performance and memory, or sleep consistency. However, students engaged with their data and showed interest in learning more about sleep. As the study progressed, participants moved away from discussing sleep duration and focused more on the impact of sleep types on patterns of sleep quality. Some students used this newfound knowledge to try and change their sleep behaviours and optimize their performance, while others struggled to change their habits. IMPLICATIONS Overall, this study highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to sleep education and the potential for personal analytics to facilitate understanding and behaviour change.

Publisher

University of Newcastle, Australia

Link to ePress publication

DOI

https://doi.org/10.33966/hepj.7.1.18045

Copyright holder

Copyright is held by the authors with the first publication rights granted to the journal.

Copyright notice

CC BY-NC-ND Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International

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