Thanks for the input, everyone. I do take classes if I think I may need extra help with a pattern (such as Mariner's Compass) but I have gotten pickier about which class I want to spend my money on. Most of the quilt shops around here charge around $50 for a class (that does not include any supplies) to be taught for the most part by members of their staff. So I think I will pass on this class and use the money for fabric.
BTW, the Mariner's Compass class was great; I have made a number of compass quilts since taking it.