The first 7-8 minutes of this video (click on image) describe how to adjust the jointer and planer--DO NOT do this. If you think something is out of alignment, tell one of the teachers. Do not attempt to adjust it yourself.
Joint and plane larger boards BEFORE cutting them down to size; do not run small boards through either machine. Begin projects by making your stock flat and straight, and then cut it to length/size as needed.
Remember the pattern:
1)Joint one face first. Two or three gentle passes might be all it needs. This gives you one smooth surface to run against the fence. Make sure the jointer is wide enough to cut your board, and make sure you use appropriate push blocks/sticks to protect your fingers.
2) Step two is to run the flattened face agains the jointer fence to give yourself a straight, smooth edge.
3) These steps can come in any order, but generally you will move to the planer next. Orient your grain properly and run your board with the smooth, flattened face down to plane the top face parallel to it.
4) Finally, run your board through the table saw with your straight, smooth edge against the fense. Now you will have two flat and parallel faces and two straight and parallel edges.