July 10, 2023

This paid piece is sponsored by Dakota State University.

Watermelon and toilet paper are just a couple of the props used by Science Steve — technically Steven Rokusek, an education specialist with South Dakota Public Broadcasting — to teach fun and humorous lessons about physics, chemistry, anatomy and more.

“I put on lively, engaging science demonstrations at venues throughout South Dakota,” Rokusek said.

A 1997 graduate of Dakota State University, Rokusek taught physics, physical science, anatomy, biology and earth science before joining SDPB in 2004.

For the past 16 years, he has been performing as Science Steve, exciting kids across South Dakota about science.

“Science classes like anatomy, chemistry and physics are difficult,” he said. “Kids might choose not to take these classes, but if they develop a love for science early on, they may be more interested and not so intimidated.”

Each time he appears as Science Steve, he completes about 15 science demonstrations. Additionally, he also develops lesson plans and videos for teachers. Through these resources, Rokusek is able to provide in-service training at schools and educational conferences.

One resource is the Dissection 101 series, which Rokusek films on Dakota State’s campus with Dr. Dale Droge, professor emeritus. Together, they have filmed a variety of dissections, such as a dogfish shark, earthworm, sheep heart and cow eye.

The educational series includes videos, lesson plans, quizzes and other materials for dissections. “The resources were developed for many reasons, including reducing the number of specimens used by a class, increasing the dissection quality and enhancing students’ learning experience,” Rokusek said.

The duo has been working on the series for about 10 years and plans to continue producing a few more episodes.

Droge started out teaching Rokusek, whom he described as an amazing student. Rokusek worked in the labs while attending DSU. “He was always incredibly reliable and inquisitive and willing to try new things,” Droge said.

After graduating, Rokusek taught at Cedar Catholic High School in Hartington, Nebraska, but he stayed in touch with Droge. A few years later, after joining SDPB and developing Science Steve, Rokusek suggested the dissection videos to Droge.

The videos are accompanied by resources like lesson plans, quizzes and other handouts, all created by Rokusek. It’s an asset to teachers, providing tutorials if they are inexperienced or unfamiliar with a particular dissection. Over the years, teachers have reached out with requests for different organisms or organs.

“One thing that sets the series apart is it goes really in-depth,” Droge said. “The videographer also does an excellent job of getting close-up footage so viewers can really see.”

Throughout the series, Rokusek asks Droge questions, and they talk about evolutionary biology, the systems of the organisms they are dissecting and what advantages and disadvantages come with those.

While Dissection 101 is filmed as part of SDPB, people nationwide are watching the videos as part of PBS LearningMedia.

“I’ve even gotten fan mail,” Droge said. “Steve gets more than I do.”

To access these resources, visit the Dissection 101 webpage. Additional learning resources for all ages and subjects are available through SDPB Learners Connection.