The way to learn is to just go do it!! Forget about looking like an idiot because many people do the first time or two. You won't be able to simulate it because the thing that catches people is remembering the course. Those damn orange cones all look alike and until you've seen them at speed a few times they can be very difficult to sort.

When you go (and you are going right?) be sure to get there early so you can get tech'd and have time to walk the course at least three times. By yourself at least twice. Look where the course goes. Don't be distracted by yakking with your buddies. Really get the feel of the course.

Then have fun!! Everybody has been lost on a course. If you really have a tough time ask for help. You'll never meet a more helpful bunch of people because everybody can remember how it was.