You answered your own question. For you to have already thought of the alternative to taking these classes, you have justified not doing it. You get quilts sent out, you pick up info on the Board and online. Your pocketbook isn't stretched. I am willing to bet more people learn a bit at a time, and search for what they need when they have time and are willing to get the info by taking that time to go online or peruse books or patterns.
However, if you want to learn extensive info immediately and get going on using all that knowledge, take the classes-that would be justified also.
Every one learns differently. I personally cannot sit in on classes or spend money on classes having someone teach me. I never had lessons on using my 2 Babylocks or my serger. All self taught and still learning.