Mindfulness and Its Relation to Academic Procrastination among University Students

Fatima Eltayeb

doi:10.13189/ujer.2021.090504

Abstract

This study explored the level of mindfulness among Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University students and its relation to academic procrastination. The study was randomly chosen from different academic levels to be suitable for the sample of this study, where 1890 female students were chosen. A total of 206 students from science and arts sections participated in the study. The descriptive approach was used because it was more suitable for this study. For statistical analysis and conclusions, two measurement scales devised by the researcher were used: the Mindfulness Scale and the Academic Procrastination Scale. To find the suitability of those scales, honesty and stability factors were implemented on both. For data processing, SPSS statistical program was used to compute means, correlations, 1-taled and 2-tailed t-tests of students' scores on the two scales. Results revealed that students had a high level of both mindfulness and academic procrastination. A statistically significant inversely proportional relationship was found between mindfulness and academic procrastination at (0,5) level. Furthermore, significant differences in mindfulness were found by study level in favor of the seventh level students. No statistically indicated significant differences in mindfulness and procrastination at (0,5)level were found by specialization (science vs. arts). After the statistical results, the researcher recommended to have more concern on counseling programs which aim to develop mindfulness, to increase awareness, and also to pay attention to the educational situation. Moreover, to do tasks on time, which will help make a positive cooperation and build more confidence between students and teaching staff members. In addition, the researcher recommended implementing counseling programs to eliminate the feature of academic procrastination among students. This study also recommended and emphasized the significance of improving E-learning and using new technology to make the educational process more attractive.

Highlights

University study is crucial for students because it outlines their future careers
Standard deviations and 1-taled t-test were computed to identify the level of mindfulness among students
This finding concurs with the studies conducted by Abdulhamid [16], Al-Shalawi [18] and Abdullah [45] where university students were reported to have a high level of mindfulness

Summary

Introduction

University study is crucial for students because it outlines their future careers. It is imperative for students to be mindful and industrious. Excellence in study depends to a large extent on students’ mindfulness and mental readiness. Learning requires mental alertness that includes the individual’s awareness of his/her problems mainly and its effect on cognitive aspects so that the individual realizes the stimuli around him/her. Learning requires non-routine practices and stimulating mental efforts, so attention is an essential process for gaining skills that focus students' attention on specific situations [1]. Mindfulness was found to be affected by the individual’s expectations, motivation and ability to plan and achieve [2]

Objectives

Results

Discussion

Conclusion