True, "general process" is a bit vague but if i understand you correctly...
There's a lot of free material on the internet. Forums/Blogs/Vlogs.
I'd say start with some basic laws of physics or explanations of aerodynamics on the internet, but if you are already more advanced a good google search on the dark site of the network can provide you with some Atpl books.
Even PPrune has some very helpful links,
http://www.pprune.org/tech-log/66205...eferences.html
An intergraded course should be very structured and easy to digest for beginners as it should serve it's purpose, but the more you know in advance the more comfortable you will be in the classroom.
Tip: Just try not to be too much comfy because no one like a smart***
