how about finding some folks who to ride with who will let you pick their brains. If they can explain things in language you can understadn, it's a bonus. I had the pleaserue of doing an epic backcountry ride with some folks who were way better than me, one is a pro guide in Moab... they were more than happy to give me pointers.
As for "if you need courses you shouldn't be riding"... I am sorry, that is so lame!!! You were never an eager beginner? I guess not.