As a pilot you will encounter acute and chronic fatigue caused by a number of reasons. One major source of fatigue is disruption in sleep patterns. Explain sleep patterns and circadian rhythms and outline at least four (4) reasons for sleep disruption, including jet-lag. Discuss the effects of acute and chronic fatigue in general, and describe ways to avoid or overcome these effects.

1. Study the readings on the essay topic given to you in the Readings and Textbook.

2. Begin a literature search related to the topic, which will help to broaden the range of information you use in your essay.

3. It is expected that you will cite at least six (6) references, with a minimum of 50% of these references cited from sources other than the Readings.

4. Write an essay using the essay writing guidelines given to you in this handbook. Also refer to the chapter on essay writing in:
Emerson, L. (Ed.). (2000). Writing guidelines for business students. (2nd ed.). Palmerston North: Dunmore Press.

5. The length of the essay is 1500 words. As is the usual practice, you are permitted 10% either side of the word limit which will not incur any marking penalty. However, an essay length outside these parameters, will be subject to a penalty. Please note that the 1500 word limit does not include your references or appendices. Please include your word count at the end of your essay.

6. It is standard practice to keep a copy of important documents. It is also a “back-stop” should you mislay your essay prior to handing in. You must submit the original and not a photocopy.