Using an op-amp for the first time
As others have pointed out, the LM311 is a comparator. 

If you're interested in op-amps, one that is easy to use and has relatively few bad habits is the LM324N. They're quite cheap, rugged, and can be run from a single supply or dual supply. 

A lot of new new datasheets are missing the application circuits, but here is an old National Semiconductor datasheet. 

For example: