I would only urge you and others who work with pre-service and inservice teachers to please express it to teachers in terms of “expanding” their networks, not starting anew. Teachers become easily overwhelmed, but if a PLN is framed in terms of “growing” something that already exists, then we will make more strides in changing mindsets. The networks have always been there, as Warlick pointed out in his cover story for ISTE’s Learning and Leading with Technology. Our learning networks are largely synchronous and personal at first (parents, friends, siblings), as we mature we continually expand our networks to include colleagues and other professionals near and far. The problem, as I see it, is most schools still rely on email to connect, plan, collaborate.

Hmm, this feels like a post I need to finish at my own blog. But thanks for the ideas!

Thanks for posting this. I am a high school administrator who, aside from other duties, teaches teachers how to get connected and utilize Web2.0 applications and network. Your post will be given to them at my next tech session as a way to keep all that I teach in perspective.

My teachers are great and enthusiastic. But, now that they “get it” (sort of like finding religion!) I have seen them begin to get a bit overwhelmed. They are in stage 1. A cognitive map such as yours will greatly help them – and me – navigate and understand their learning.

Your insight reminds me of Elizabeth Kubler-Ross’ ON DEATH AND DYING – a true help in understanding a major shift.