Sorry to hear about your disappoinment. There are a few points to check before handing out the money.
1.Ask for the teacher plan of the course, especially if it spread over a period of time.
2. Ask if there is any prerequisites, to make sure the course is at a right level for you.
3. Ask to see the room where the course will be given, and how many students will register
4. Inquire about the teacher credentials.
I follow my courses with Quilt University, they have great teachers, you work on your own time, the teaching texts are clear with good pictures, you can reach the teacher and you have an evaluation you can fill at the end of the course.
I am more than satisfied with the quality of teaching I get for the money I spend. By the way I am a former Home Economics teacher !