The most important part is learning how to get back in the kayak say you fall out for whatever circumstance. If your brand new to it, I'd definately recomend it. I wish I had my first time out...
Could have went home in a bag.
Classes are definately worth every penny. Also Ask as many questions as you can think of. on this forum there is some real pros that have been doing for almost a decade or hell even more. That wisdom is priceless.