Learning objectives
At the end of the training activity, the student:
understands the importance of sleep for their well-being;
understands how sleep has been represented throughout history, art, and society;
understands the sleep process and the techniques used to study it;
understands chronobiology and chronopsychology by examining the significance of the sleep-wake cycle over 24 hours;
understands the issues associated with changes in the sleep-wake cycle;
recognizes sleep disorders;
understands some tools useful for studying sleep;
understands the relationship between sleep and nutrition;
understands the relationship between sleep and sports.
Course unit content
Sleep is a fundamental component of human health and well-being, profoundly influencing physical, mental, and emotional functioning. For sleep to have a “restorative” effect on the body, it is essential that it meets the physiological and psychological needs of an individual, with adequate duration and high quality. However, the duration of sleep is not constant and can be influenced by exogenous and endogenous factors, making it difficult to define an "optimal" sleep model due to significant differences between individuals.
There are many endogenous factors, but above all, many exogenous factors have historically led to significant changes in the duration and quality of sleep in individuals.
Therefore, in this course, we will attempt to offer an anthropological perspective on the sleep process, ranging from art to physiology, nutrition, and psychology to provide a multidisciplinary and comprehensive view. Our aim is to promote sufficient and high-quality sleep, which is essential for maintaining optimal health and psychophysical balance.
Teaching methods
Lectures delivered in an interactive mode
Assessment methods and criteria
Written exam with multiple-choice questions
Other information
Attendance is strongly recommended (a minimum of 75% of the classes) to take the exam. Attendance will be recorded in the classroom.
