For classes I would follow the instructor, you are there to learn new techniques whether you will keep doing that way after the class is up to you. For books and patterns, I would just adapt it to whatever method suits you that you like. I always like learning new techniques so I would try not to stress over what some say are right or wrong ways of doing things as long as it works for you what is anyone to say about it. The reason I like to follow instructors in classes is that they are experienced in the area that they are teaching, and when I take a class I usually like to take something new that I haven't done so I am a newbie in that area.