Is there a empty parking lot or very low use street nearby that you could practice on. Maybe brands of the controls are different also, what type do you have?

I found some videos on youtube about using hand controls -
http://www.google.com/search?q=using...vgc&hl=en&aq=f

But I think after you get the basics down, practice is what will make you more comfortable using them.

I added to your thread title so more will know what you need help with.