Some beginners might pick it up right away with a short light fast rod, but I think that would be the exception, and not the rule. For less coodinated people, i would go with longer and slower rod. A moderate 5/6 weight in 8 or 9 foot is a good starter outfit IMHO. something with good feel.
I'm self taught (with no classes, books or videos), and not a good teacher so take this for what it is worth (just one person's opinion). My first rod was very long and slow (8.5 bamboo, about a 5 or 6 weight) and I think I picked it up fairly quickly. next rods were long and slow used fiberglass. If you can find an old Wonderod, I think that would be a good rod to learn on. That is if you are teaching yourself. I think the average instructor might get frustrated with it if he is using a modern rod, and you are using an old glass rod.
just some thoughts.