We used Bokken in a recent class so that Sensei could help us with our hand positions and it made a huge difference for me. Especially when he demonstrated one of the techniques we were working on. Seeing the sword movement made the whole thing make a lot more sense to me. I expect that when I eventually get to the point of regular weapons work I will continue to find this to be true.
I think the new classes can only help to improve your Aikido.