Investigating Possible Effects of Sleep Deficiency on Students' Mathematical Proficency: A Review of the Literature

Guillermo J. Farfan

Guillermo J. Farfan Florida State University

Abstract

Mathematical proficiency relies on a host of cognitive processes that are shared with other mental functions, but three, in particular, are thought to play a central role: memory, attention, and executive functioning. This paper reviews some of the medical, psychological, and educational research literature on sleep deficiency and how it may affect one or more of these cognitive processes. It aims to provide a framework for future investigations into the mental processes of school-aged (K-12) and college-aged students that may be at risk from inadequate or insufficient sleep. Implications for mathematics teaching and learning are also briefly discussed.

Author Biography

Guillermo J. Farfan, Florida State University

Guillermo Farfan is a doctoral student in learning and cognition in the Department of Educational Psychology and Learning Systems at Florida State University. His research interests include the acquisition, organization, and dissemination of mathematical knowledge, and the relationships between epistemic cognition, teacher education, and mathematical instruction. He earned a Master of Science Degree in Psychology from Walden University.

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