And, there are many different learning styles -- some people learn best from examples, some people need pictures, and some people do best when things are explained orally.

Once in a while, you need to get up to speed very quickly, and taking a class doesn't give you as much of an opportunity to procrastinate. You also have someone there to ask questions if you get confused (and face to face communication is much more effective than posting on a message board)

I think it's admirable to try to further your knowledge -- it's even better if you can manage to get your work to foot the bill for it.