SLR and DSLR cameras are very different then point and shoots, I love my point and shoot but like you, it's becoming a bit too limiting for me, after shooting for a while.

As far as the choice between online information and a class depend on what you are hoping to get out of it, if it's just technical knowledge and understanding what is the meaning of different words are (like aperture or exposure, then I think an online search \ class would be just fine. But if you want to be able to take better pictures - which means some technical knowledge but also different theories of color, composition, trying out new topics to shoot and thinking of different layers of what makes a photo good \ interesting - I think you should go with the class.

Also, the introduction to other amature \ semi professional photographers can be very rewarding and to make this a much more meaningful experience.

My guty feeling say - co with the class.