Matthew Zylstra

Matthew Zylstra, PhD is an ecologist, lecturer and facilitator focusing on human~nature connectedness. His transdisciplinary research has entwined ecology, environmental psychology, and education in support of deep learning and wellbeing. He is a keen naturalist, especially in coastal and marine ecosystems. Matthew’s PhD dissertation on meaningful nature experience, nature connectedness and its role in transformative education is freely available for download here »

Browsing All Posts By Matthew Zylstra

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The hatching of an idea

Introducing ‘free-range education’: scrambled idea or hard-boiled movement in the making? ...
On June 23, 2013 / By Matthew Zylstra
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The problem with ‘eyes4earth’

A reliance on our eyes as our primary sense organ inhibits our engagement with environmental issues and our connection ...
On April 22, 2013 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Ecologist or bunny-hugger?

We might all be into the environment, but battle lines are drawn when it comes to invasive species ...
On March 21, 2013 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Results: MNEs, connectedness & invasive species action

View the research results poster presented on meaningful nature experiences at the 2012 Annual Research Meeting of the DST-NRF ...
On December 12, 2012 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Dolphin-assisted fishing: Mutualism or more?

Five fascinating cases (with photos & video) of dolphin-assisted fishing from around the world. Is life more about mutualism ...
On November 21, 2012 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Life’s like a leaf

What does the Bodhi Tree, a shimmering leaf and bliss bugs all have in common? ...
On November 7, 2012 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Drugs: Just a ‘peek’ experience?

Drugs may enable meaningful experiences and insight. But can they deliver a lasting 'awakening'? ...
On October 10, 2012 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Myths, missionaries & metaphysics

Finding truth and facts in an a holy trinity ...
On September 17, 2012 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Mantis & the Trickster

A series of events which may or may not prove anything with respect to meaningful nature experience - except ...
On September 12, 2012 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Aliens: Is the truth really out there?

Learning to see outside of our worldview may bring unwanted truths. ...
On September 10, 2012 / By Matthew Zylstra