They felt compelled to give something back for the gift they received by playing this marvelous instrument. In so doing, they honor themselves and the instrument. It is obvious that tablature is not needed when only music theory or topics involving non-playing matters are being discussed. When instruction is offered for playing the steel guitar, however, every lesson should include tablature. You should also be allowed to tape record the lesson, and when finished, depart with the recording and the tablature in your possession.
Tablature is also a tool, a very efficient learning tool.
The thoroughness of tablature reflects the professionalism of the instructor and informs you that your teacher recognizes the importance of advancing the steel guitar to musical legitimacy. Furthermore, ultimate legitimacy for a musical instrument is achieved when musical notation can be written for it. The tablature, packaging, and written instructions were poorly prepared or tacky. The instructor desired to sell the course material himself. By selling this inadequate and unacceptable instructional material, it short-changes the student and retards the goal of achieving musical legitimacy for the steel guitar.