Crashem - I think you're right about doing research yourself. But he clearly posted this thread for our opinions. If the original question is which one is easier, I would offer the following:

Easier on the wallet - Nitro. For the level of performance best for a beginner at least a 25 class trainer would be best IMHO. Any smaller and it isn't stable in any but the lightest wind and difficult to see at a distance for orientation. Given the same flight times/same amount of power and same level of control, electrics will be significantly more expensive to start. But naturally, electrics could ultimately be cheaper if you count in the running costs, provided you don't plant one then you have to invest in another battery that can be quite expensive.

Easier to get in the air - Electric. While electrics come VERY RTF for parkflyers, they are not so for larger planes. The larger planes would be equally difficult to build as Nitro RTFs. The good thing is that electrics don't have a run-in as obvious as that of a nitro plane, which may not run correctly or idle consistently at first. No tuning is necessary and you can just put it together and it's good to fly. Of course, some people ask you to run in the commutators of brushed motors but I think that is really optional for beginners. Nitro engines can be difficult at first so definitely easier to get in the air goes to Electric. Also, you can fly electrics almost anywhere where Nitro planes are too loud.

Easier to learn on - Equal. Given the same size plane with the same power/weight ratio, wing loading and flight time, they are the same. Once again, the price differential would be the only limiting factor. The only thing that nitro would have is that you can fill up and go again. Electrics you need to charge. Even if you have two packs, charging takes time. On the electrics, you have the benefit of not having deadsticks since you sould know well in advance that the pack is running low.

Easier to move on - Naturally this depends on your next plane. If you eventually go nitro... then an electric trainer will just sit and rust.

So it seems like the only real benefit of Nitro is the cost.

Now from my own experience. I have taught people on 40 size nitro trainers and that has to be the most fun I've had. They are easy to handle, very stable and extremely forgiving. They are true floaters. I don't know of an equivalent electric at this time. I have also taught people on crappy 3-channel foamy cubs that were heavy and underpowered as well as the multiplex ez-star. I would say this... nothing is as good a trainer as the 40 size trainer with light wing loading and tricycle gear. If you can find a good electric that meets those criteria at a price you can afford, then you I salute you, Mr. Gates. If however, you aren't ready to spend that money... decide if you want to go Nitro 40 size or with a lesser plane that maybe won't teach you everything you need to know but will give you the basics there are plenty.

If you go nitro - options abound.

If you go electric - my suggestion would be the Multiplex EZStar RTF made of elapor. It is very very stable and will get you up in the air as soon as the battery charges. This plane is offered through Hobby-Lobby and is great for very beginners. I think it's 200 bucks.

I'm sure I left out a lot but that is just my 2 cents.

One more thing... these suggestions are based on the fact that you plan to join a club and have someone actually instruct you or at least buddy box you. If you want to learn it yourself... cheap foamy planes are the best (economical) way to go!