I learned by reading, visiting, hanging out with tibetans in temples for 5 years in toronto upo return to canada and two years in longeuil, quebec, at manjusri centre where I took my boddhisstava vows before having ever taken refuge consisouly and traditionally. The monk who encouraged me to come bac for the vow ceremony seemed very holy. I dont think it matters I was not tradition back then. Method and tradition is not the only thing for a truth of buddhist vows and heart.