I am really sorry to hear of so many bad and/or expensive class experiences. I have taught classes from beginners on up and the one thing I do at the end of the class is pass out a sheet for them to grade me, anonomously of course. This way I know if I need to make changes in future classes. I also let the students know that they can call or come see me for assistance, some of them still call or come 2 and 3 years after a class when they are stuck on something new.
I guess what I'm saying is maybe the next time you sign up for a class maybe you could suggest a grading sheet regarding the instruction given, how it was given, time spent, etc. and ask 'if there will be future in shop assistance' on this project after the class ends (if the classes were not taught well).
Longarm