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A PLN isn't a particularly new idea; learning networks have existed for a long time. What's new is the reach and extent that's now possible for a PLN, with technology and global interconnectedness providing the opportunity for a much wider, richer and more diverse PLN than ever before.

I realize there are many amazing posts on the merits of using Twitter to develop a PLN. I also realize that there already exists dozens of collections of tools for making the most of Twitter.

Networked teachers began to use a number of types of tools and connected well beyond what was normal within a "typical" teacher network. Teachers are not just connected WITH these tools, they are connected THROUGH these tools to other humans. The most important part of PLNs, in my opinion, is how they can help us connect to other humans, to help us better understand the world, to negotiate knowledge and meaning, and of course, to help us to learn.

The only way for all of us to deal with the current challenge to our particular approach to learning - aside from ignoring it completely, which is about as effective as ignoring an oncoming truck - is to seize the wheel and create our own learning network.

This Handbook of Emerging Technologies for Learning (HETL) has been designed as a resource for educators planning to incorporate technologies in their teaching and learning activities.

Scott Wilson posted this diagram to illustrate one possible conceptual structure for a future personal learning environment (PLE).

Twitter may not function as a broadcast medium as much as it serves as a quick relay service for sharing ideas, thoughts and concerns with others who have similar interests, both locally and at great distances. These practices typically follow the formula, articulated by Barbara Ganley, that we "blog to reflect, Tweet to connect."

What's the point of Twitter? Why should educators get involved? What difference does using Twitter make? Here are some answers that you might like to share.

You get out of Twitter what you put into Twitter. When you come to Twitter, come prepared to share something. It doesn't have to be earth-shattering information. Just something, anything, that someone, somewhere, might want to see. Here's a novel approach to getting started with Twitter: expect nothing in return.

A Twitter people search engine. Type in a keyword, and refine your search.