and yes, Velvet, i support your inner feeling that the choke collar your teacher gave you, indicates this trainer is probably not on the same page you are. It's not a good sign if a trainer thinks the best, first "go-to" solution in training a dog is force, pain, intimidation, discomfort, etc.
not a good sign at all.
I kind of shudder to imagine, if this trainer is presented with a dog with actual behavioral issues...
i guess, like every other dog owner, you have to ask yourself, what kind of relationship do i want my dog to have with me??
One based on trust and fun,
or one based upon fear, pain, force, etc.
I don't even think that latter choice works, imo.
bummer if you decide you do not want to continue in that class, cuz i bet you were excited to find a group of dog owners interested in training, etc, and i hope you find what you are looking for.