Thanks for all the replies. I guess they confirmed what I was thinking: an instructor can spot flaws and provide personal correction, but the time is very limited compared to what I can do on the web.

I don't really have a practical way to jam with friends, but have had a lot of fun using various backing tracks on the web and jam station here. The sound is crappy because it's just over my small computer speakers, and that's not great. I could do some CD tracks but my big stereo is in the other room from my amp, etc. Guess I'll have to get that sorted out so I've got everything together.