@article {Douglass Burton3442084, author = {Tamara Douglass Burton}, title = {Using Experiential Learning in Sleep Education: A Pilot Study}, volume = {65}, number = {Suppl 10}, elocation-id = {3442084}, year = {2020}, publisher = {Respiratory Care}, abstract = {Background: Adequate hours of sleep in adults and college students has steadily decreased in the past 10 years (CDC). According to Dr. Kusida (2020), if students are routinely sleep deprived their ability to learn, memorize, and be attentive is diminished. There are few published studies that examine the use of experiential learning in sleep education. The question being posed is: What is the impact of using experiential learning as a theoretical framework for sleep education in the collegiate environment? Experiential learning is defined as, "the process whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience" (Kolb 1984, p.38). To follow the principles of this theory, students participated in four activities that focused on promoting pre-bedtime routines/healthy sleep habits. The four activities were drinking Sleeptime tea before bed, guided meditation, yoga, and nap sessions. A brief survey was used as a reflection tool. Methods: This mixed-method pilot study used a survey and qualitative feedback from students enrolled in a Sleep education course. Data from 25 participants was used; 24 student-athletes; from seven different sports; one female non-athlete; 14 males and 11 females. The data collected from the survey was both quantitative and qualitative. Excel was used to calculate the percentages for the quantitative data and qualitative responses was coded and reviewed by peer briefing. Themes emerged as the students described their experiences and benefits for each activity. Results: The results from the tea activities showed, 92\% of the student benefitted from the activity and would use this technique again. The result were identical for yoga and nap sessions; 92\% positive responses. The results from the meditation session was higher, 100\% benefitted, with 95\% stating they would participate in meditation as a pre-bedtime activity. There was minimal to no prior experience with the activities. The qualitative feedback show that the students found all the activities to be relaxing, improved mood, soothing and increase concentration, while reducing stress. Limitations: 1. Small sample size; results cannot be generalized to a larger population or demographic 2. Surveys not validated and subjective. Conclusions: The results of the study showed, students were able to increase their exposure to healthy sleep habits and learned techniques to improve pre-bed/sleep activities. The student enjoyed learning through experiential activities and would incorporate them into their pre-bed routines.}, issn = {0020-1324}, URL = {https://rc.rcjournal.com/content/65/Suppl_10/3442084}, eprint = {https://rc.rcjournal.com/content}, journal = {Respiratory Care} }