[NikkiA]

I would argue that a $0 web-sdr bookmark will teach you exactly the same things without you forever wondering if it's your antennae that's the problem.

[actionfromafar]

You sort of back-handedly made a case for using your own antenna to better understand radio. :-)

[NikkiA]

Oh, there is absolutely a case for trying your own antennae, and experimenting with various antenna topologies, to understand radio.

The issue is if it's the first thing a newbie should be doing while also trying to work out if their USB dongle works at all :D

[ale42]

Very true... only issue is that you wont receive any local signals if there's no local web-SDR in your area.

[furyg3]

Where do you find these? Is there an online library?

[NikkiA]

websdr.org has a huge list. You can find a few more via google.