PLN

I am trying to wrap my head around why I need to set up a Personal Learning Network since it basically is in my head. Therefore, I am not sure what benefits constructing a graphic representation of my networking process will have. Will it make me see the process more clearly? Will it help me focus on interconnecting links? It seems rather innate at this point but I am open to experimenting with it. Thus the PLN gadget is located on the right.

As I explored PLNs, I liked what Kate Klingensmith said about the value of a PLN: http://onceateacher.wordpress.com/2009/05/05/pln-your-personal-learning-network-made-easy/ The Flickr link on her blog describes the stages of setting up a PLN: immersion > evaluation > know it all > perspective > balance. I think I am at the balance stage where I learn new things to grow professionally but not at a rate where I feel overwhelmed.