As a pre-EasyC and mentorless programmer I would advise you to try jumping into C and the default code first. I would suggest reading a C tutorial(
heres a good one ) then read the
2004 programming reference guide. If you have never programmed before this may be a difficult course but I believe it will provide you with greater understanding. Whatever development route you take, I would suggest trying to setup a test board, as previously stated, and/or try reprogramming an old robot(if you have any).