So, You know nothing about protocols and, presumably, have no experience with this chip?

I think you really need to save up that $260 dollars!
The kit will at least give you a known-good hardware platform to start on, and will almost certainly also include example software to get you started - well worth it, I'd say.

There are several other modules available (not necessarily this particular chip) at much lower cost (under US$100?) - try searching here for a start.