It is 5:30 a.m. Monday morning and Amanda McRell, senior in marketing, has been working with her group on a class project since 6 p.m. Sunday.

McRell’s eyes slowly fall shut to block out the computer screen in front of her. The only thing she can think about is sleep.

This semester, many Iowa State students have found themselves in similar situations — the often dreaded group work scenario.

“This semester I have at least one out-of-class group project due in four out of my five classes, plus exams,” McRell said.

In an informal study of 35 ISU students, 25 said they are doing more group work this semester than in the past. Three of the surveyed students said they are doing less group work this semester than in past semesters, and seven said they have not noticed a change in the amount of group work they have been assigned.

Most surveyed students said in smaller, upper-level classes, they seemed to be doing group work on a daily basis plus having group projects that required meeting outside of class. Those in larger, lower-level classes said they rarely do group work.

Pat Swanson, temporary assistant professor in human development and family studies, said she thinks group work helps students because it brings in their perspectives from lecture, and they are then able to share it with each other.

“I feel that students can help each other by applying concepts and terminology to the practice problems I assign,” Swanson said. “I think it helps them see if they grasped the concept.”

Angela Fontanini, senior in psychology, agreed with Swanson that group work is beneficial in class and for her future.

“I like group work because it helps me be a more active participant,” Fontanini said. “I learn to work well with others and accept their opinions and views.”

Many students surveyed said it is hard to find a time when all members of the group can meet. They also said there is always someone who doesn’t do his or her share of the work but gets the same grade as the rest of the group members.

“I would rather do things at my own pace so I don’t fall behind as a result of others’ lack of participation,” said Wendi Butler, sophomore in business.

McRell said she thinks professors should let students choose their own groups, provide class time to let groups work together and have peer evaluations so students can let professors know how much each member of the group participated.