You can shut the chat off. I have never had a problem on Poker Stars.
I am the wrong person to ask about how to start out though. I would think play money would be the way to go.

I never read a book and learned from experience and by watching the best. I have my own style and it works for me. I am an average player and have good streaks and bad streaks.

I do know that when you get to the point where you fold fold fold and can toss out a king three you are well on your way .

Good luck if you give it a whirl