I think my main point is for you to understand what exactly is happening when you are doing these techniques, even choking someone out.  You need to understand what it is you are technically doing and what it is that is happening to the person.  Even by choking someone out, you run the risk of causing permanent brain damage or death if you don't truly understand the happenings of a technique.

Whenever I teach a class, regardless if it is kenjutsu, karate or taiji, I always try to explain what it is a technique is doing to the opponent.  My sword class can sometimes get graphic. ;)  So be sure to ask quesitons from your instructor "Why does this strike cause problems"  "What is happening when I choke this person out?"  "How can I revive them after I choke them out?", ect.