In an ideal world getting out for at least one season with a falconer or Hawker and also reading a few quality publications, Ideally I would keep away from the internet forums, at least until you have established one clear method of working with your chosen bird, there is some excellent stuff written, no doubt a lot works but until basic understanding is instilled I think it gives too many options, you see it time and time again people asking questions when they are already being mentored, just muddys the waters further.
Books wise Id go for Philp Glasier, Falconry and Hawking, Nick Fox, U