I see where you are coming from Buckeye. I am a self learned guitar player and i am very proud of that fact. I have considered myself very successful with it b/c i completed my goals when i started learning, and like you, learned alot from trial and error. I have been in multiple bands, played live gigs etc... I wouldnt trade that for anything. I feel like the experienc I got and work ethic from learning/teaching myself was more valuable than just being good b/c i took lessons.

Archery on the other hand to me is different. IMO failure is failure and ignorance is no excuse for failure. If I were never taught that the optimal spot to shoot a deer is behind the shoulder, it would have taken much trial and error to figure out where to place an arrow/bullet. The failures would have caused dissappointment and grief for sure. People can use the web to learn what is the best way to approach certain situations and how to do things that wouldnt be as easy to learn without it.

Technology is a very valuable thing, and when used properly, can benefit you very much.