How to keep awake in class

Kenya: This is one of the hottest terms on the school calendar and many students find themselves struggling to keep their eyes open even as teachers instruct them. Students in drama club, especially have trouble because of late-night rehearsals. They find themselves nodding off uncontrollably, especially during afternoon classes.

Sleeping is never an option when you are in class. If you are unwell, you are not supposed to be in class in the first place. The disadvantage of sleeping in class is that you miss out on what the other students are learning. It also puts you in your teacher’s bad books.

So how do you ensure that you stay awake and alert in class?

Some of the tips here are classroom-specific, but others will also help you when you join the working world in future.

1. Always shower before class. Some students ‘fear’ (cold) water, but showering keeps you awake. Your classmates might also just be happy because the classroom will not smell of sweat.

2. Have a bottle of drinking water and drink plenty of it to ensure you stay hydrated. This will help you to remain awake. You could also put ice in your water bottle; the colder the water, the more lively and alert you remain.

3. Snack: Eat a fruit just before the lesson. The natural sugar will energise you and reduce the fatigue.

4. Put your sweater away. The warmer you are dressed, the more likely you are to doze off. Loosen your school tie too, and ensure the classroom windows are open for some fresh air or even a breeze.

5. Stop daydreaming and save it for after class. When you start fantasising, you are sending yourself to dreamland, literally. To stay focused and awake, take notes as the teacher speaks. This keeps your body active and your mind focused.

6. Excuse yourself to go to the bathroom. Walking out of class will keep the sleepiness at bay because it gets your blood circulating again. As you walk to the bathroom, try and stretch and take deep breaths to provide your body with more oxygen.

7. Your posture determines your level of concentration. Sit up and focus on the front of the class. Do not slouch as this causes unnecessary stress on your muscles, leading to fatigue.

8. Interact with your teacher by asking questions and commenting on what they say. As you listen, actively think of difficult questions you can raise. This will ensure you focus on what the teacher has to say.

9. Sit at the front of the class. It always works. The closer you are to the teacher, the less likely you are to fall asleep. You definitely do not want the teacher catching you asleep right under his or her nose!