eLearnAfrica
The Science of Sleep and Dreams
New Scientist
  • Start Date: 25 Apr, 2022
  • 3 weeks
  • Study Content: Videos


Delve into sleep science to understand why we sleep and dream, how it affects the mind and body, and how to improve your sleep.

Course Fee: Free
Certificate Cost: See Fees and Eligibility
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Course Description

Explore the importance of sleep and dreams for mental health and wellbeing


We all sleep approximately one-third of our lives – a huge proportion of our time. We also know that sleep is fundamental to our health and wellbeing.


This three-week course from New Scientist will delve into the phenomenon of sleep and dreams to unpack the importance of sleeping and dreaming for cognition, mental health, and wellbeing.


Learn about the stages of sleep, such as Rapid Eye Movement sleep (REM sleep)


The sleep cycle is comprised of multiple stages of sleep which help the body and mind to recuperate. Progressing through the cycle multiple times a night allows a person to achieve a high-quality rest, which has positive effects on mental, emotional, and physical health.


On this course, you’ll learn about the stages of sleep and dreaming to understand what happens when we sleep, and how the sleep stages change over the course of a night.


Examine key theories and the latest research in sleep science


Psychologists, scientists, and researchers have examined the phenomenon of sleep and dreams for centuries to understand why we sleep and dream.


With the expertise of Professor Penny Lewis from Cardiff University and Professor Anil Seth from the University of Sussex, you’ll review and discuss key theories and experimental evidence that underpin this exciting area of research. Through an analysis of this research, you’ll expand your understanding of the links between sleep and dreams and the functions of the human brain.


Discover sleep strategies and how sleep can be engineered, with New Scientist


Sleep engineering is a fascinating emerging science based around manipulating sleep in order to improve cognition and health.


With the expertise of the trusted educators on this course, you’ll explore sleep engineering and learn tips and strategies to improve your own sleep.


This course is designed for anyone interested in research into sleep science, or those who wish to improve their sleep.


It will also be useful for healthcare professionals and students of psychology looking to improve their understanding of sleep science.


    • Certificate cost may vary. You will be redirected to the host page for cost and payment options.

    • New Scientist

      This university is part of the partnership between eLearnAfrica and FutureLearn.

    • You may be able to download course materials after enrolling in this course. If not, all of the necessary course materials provided by the course instructor will be available on the provider's course page.
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