Background: Academic stress and burnout are becoming more challenging among university students, which also increases procrastination and reduces productivity. The Pomodoro technique is an advanced time management tool that uses focused study sessions with regular breaks. Through utilizing the potential of the Pomodoro Method, this research examines this fast-growing study technique in optimizing learning procedures and social adaptation of university students, particularly students with different academic needs. The aim of the study is to determine the effectiveness of the utilization of the Pomodoro Technique in reducing the level of stress and preventing study burnout among undergraduate and graduate students in Virtual Study Halls (VSH).\n
Methods: A mixed-methods approach using both quantitative and qualitative data was implemented in this study. The quantitative method of this study used pre- and post-intervention surveys that included a set of demographic questions and 3 standardized scales, such as the Student Stress Inventory (SSI), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and Maslach Burnout Inventory - Student Survey (MBI-SS), to measure change in stress level, academic performance, and mindfulness before and after using the Pomodoro Technique in the VSH. For the qualitative method, neurodivergent students were invited to participate in an individual interview of 30 minutes as a focus group.
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Results: Preliminary findings regarding applications of the Pomodoro Technique when studying reveal significantly reduced academic burnout and stress levels while simultaneously improving mindfulness levels. Moreover, organizing tasks and taking scheduled study breaks bring positive benefits for mood and bring consistency to studying when compared to using self-regulated study breaks. Self-regulated breaks often become drawn out in time and reportedly cause distress, fatigue, lack of concentration, and lack of motivation among students. These findings are consistent with prior research, which shows that scheduled and timed study breaks increase consistency and reduce procrastination.
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Conclusion: Regular sessions of the Pomodoro technique have been found to improve concentration, focus, and attentiveness and decrease mental exhaustion. With this proven beneficial effect, this study contributes to evidence-based research in higher education settings and offers new insights into the implementation of policies for effective time and stress management among college students, including students who are neurodiverse.
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