Exploring the Impact of Coffee Break in Mathematics Courses to Improve Academic Performance and Reducing Exam Stress

Traditional exams create stress and anxiety among students, hampering their cognitive abilities and general well-being. The factors involved in a traditional exam catalyze student stress and anxiety. Math exams are no different. This study explores the potential benefits of integrating Guerra’s coffee break into traditional math tests to relieve stress and improve academic performance. During the coffee break, the students could discuss questions and resolve doubts with their classmates. The break takes place outside the classroom and rules of conduct are established to avoid attempts at aca-demic dishonesty. Exam questions require the development of critical thinking and problems that require students’ prior knowledge, so the coffee break does not help students who have not adequately prepared for the exam. A survey was administered to students after completing the exam to collect qualitative data on students’ experiences before, during and after the Coffee Break. The results suggested a positive impact on students’ perceptions regarding stress levels, mood, and academic performance. Students reported a sense of relief and better concentration when learning about the coffee break, which reduced stress during the exam. The break provided an opportunity for collaborative problem solving and clarification, resulting in in-creased confidence and motivation to complete the exam. Integrating a “coffee break” into math tests has the potential to alleviate stress, promote effective learning, and support students’ mental well-being.