If you google PLN (Personal Learning Network), PLE (Personal Learning Environment) links will come up too.
Confusing, isn't it? The difference confuses me too. We're not the only ones. This might help.
PLE as subset of PLN, comment on Flickr posted with image
Someone in my PLN asked what the difference between a PLN and a PLE is. This is how I see the relationship - the PLE as a subset or component of the larger Personal Learning Network.
Just my initial thoughts, but can take it from here.