With the sub prime collapse and global markets taking large losses should the average investor be undertaking financial planning courses?

Like it or not the vast majority of adults now have money invested either directly or indirectly. The investments are usually through their superannuation funds or managed investments. The majority of this money is under management but when large losses occur in the market place it is not unusual for individuals to wonder whether they could have done better or at least no worse than their fund managers. While many people would not countenance undertaking a RG146 / PS146 course for others it may bean interesting and a very good idea.