I have PS Elements 11 and I downloaded the Nik plugins trial version. It seems to be the full version with a 15 day limit.
So far I like Nik suite... A lot!
I also went to Amazon and downloaded two books by Robin Whalley. They walk you through nearly every command of the Silver Efex and Viveza plugins. They both are easy no-nonsense reads and can be completed in one sitting each depending upon how much technical background you have. The best part is that they only cost $3.99 and $2.99 respectively. The Amazon Kindel reader, available for nearly any computer, is free.
After reading Whalley's ebooks, I jumped right into the tools. The NIK software installation was a no brainer. I opened PSE and found a new window containing the new tools - ready to be called when needed.
Like I said, so far I really like them. The process of using layers for masks and filtering is gone I think. I also like how the control points work to provide localized image tuning.
I have another week left on my free trial period. As of now, I think I will pop for the $150 and get the full ticket.
Bill