Kaylan Wesley Informative Outline AGD: Understanding the relationship between sleep and human health considering productivity and specific behavior. Transition Many people usually ignore their sleep patterns. How does sleep influence their health, productivity and behavior? Significance According to the report by Grandner (2017), sleep is an essential part of human life. Sleep quality determines overall human health. The report claims that people who sleep less than 6 hours or over 9 hours have high mortality. Additionally, poor quality sleep has been linked with conditions like obesity and weight gain. However, such a trend is associated with other factors like age and cultural background. Dr Lawrence J. Epstein claims that sleep deprivation is directly associated with various health risks. Such risks arise due to either lack of sufficient or poor-quality sleep. These conditions include cardiovascular complications and neurocognitive functioning problems. Preview While many studies have been provided speaking about the importance of maintaining quality sleep, many people still argue against its role in achieving better health outcomes. Doctors, as mentioned above, show that quality sleep is a significant health determinant considering complex diseases and conditions like cardiovascular disease. This section explores some of the ideas surrounding the relationship between sleep and health outcomes. Body I. Sleep as a health determinant ? A study by Grandner (2017) argues that maintaining the ideal sleep quality offers the desired health outcomes since it prevents diseases like cardiovascular conditions. ? An article by Daum (2017) claims that people who maintain quality sleep have a high chance of sustaining positive productivity in their workplace and the general community. ? In an article published in Healthline magazine, Leech, J. (2020) claims that good sleep is essential and beneficial to the community since it offers the ideal framework for maintaining a better health outcome. ? People with quality sleep trends are healthy and reduce risks of complex conditions like cardiovascular health complications. Transition Many people may ignore the potential effects of maintaining quality sleep. Such a trend may create a framework for the onset of various health conditions. On the same note, there is a need to understand how lack of quality sleep affects human functioning addressing productivity trends. I. Sleep quality and productivity ? Kemmis (2019) satirically asks, ‘What if you could take a pill that improved your productivity at work? And what if the pill were free?’ However, the Zapier magazine article claims that an alternative is getting sufficient quality sleep while no such pill exists. ? On the same note, Magnavita & Garbarino (2017) report that employees who maintain between 6 and 9 sleeping duration and trend have higher productivity than those who have reduced or excess time. ? This study confirms that these employees have high productivity trends in the workplace. ? The Meta-analysis study by Litwiller, Snyder, Taylor & Steele (2017) shows that maintaining a positive sleep trend is strategic in improving the quality of work performed. Employees with quality sleep have a high chance of reporting positive productivity. Transition People who have enough sleep are subject to improved productivity. The studies above show that maintaining a positive sleep trend is strategic for maintaining the ideal quality of work output. However, specific human behaviour is influenced by the sleep quality they report and maintain. I. Sleep and understanding specific human behaviour ? According to the Cleveland Clinic (2020), lack of sufficient and quality sleep leads to increased daytime sleepiness. This condition can reduce the overall body alertness, which is dangerous for the people operating machinery. ? Secondly, a study reviewed by Dr Alex Dimitriu and written by Suni (2020) claims that it is likely to encounter or experience a ‘zombie-like’ feeling after a night of insufficient rest. This experience is translated into drowsiness during the day, which undermines productivity. ? Slowed thinking, worsening memory, reduced daily energy and poor or risky decision-making trends are common behavioural traits that people who do not get sufficient sleep encounter or report. ? On the same note, Suni (2020) argues that people who do not get sufficient sleep are likely to report mood changes that affect their reasoning and community relationships. Review/conclusion From the analysis given above, sleep is one of the human aspects that many people disregard concerning its effects on their overall behaviour and health outcomes. Scientific studies reported above and expert opinions from doctors show that sleep deprivation is common. Additionally, failing to get enough and quality sleep undermines productivity. Further, people with poor sleeping habits are likely to encounter behavioural traits like drowsiness, poor decision-making, and mood changes. There is, therefore, a need to maintain positive sleep patterns to prevent adverse health, social and behavioural effects. References Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Here’s What Happens When You Don’t Get Enough Sleep (And How Much You Really Need a Night). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/happens-body-dont-get-enough-sleep/ Daum, K. (2017). Science Proves Why Good Sleep Is Critical to Your Success. Mansueto Ventures. Retrieved from https://www.inc.com/kevin-daum/science-proves-why-good-sleep-is-critical-to-your-s uccess.html Grandner, M. A. (2017). Sleep, health, and society. Sleep medicine clinics, 12(1), 1-22. Kemmis, S. (2019). The Science of Sleep and Productivity. Zapier. Retrieved from https://zapier.com/blog/sleep-and-productivity/ Leech, J. (2020). 10 Reasons Why Good Sleep Is Important. Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-reasons-why-good-sleep-is-important Litwiller, B., Snyder, L. A., Taylor, W. D., & Steele, L. M. (2017). The relationship between sleep and work: A meta-analysis. Journal of Applied Psychology, 102(4), 682. Magnavita, N., & Garbarino, S. (2017). Sleep, health and wellness at work: a scoping review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 14(11), 1347. Suni, E. (2020). Sleep Deprivation. OneCare Media, LLC. Retrieved from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-deprivation

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.