Re: Leaving Microsoft
Although I agree it may be better for the student not to be forced to re-learn the industry standard application, nonetheless those that cannot adopt new tools under the same fundamental concepts of the software are doom to fail.
In a few years in time, autocad alternative software will exist. In a few years in time, flash will be replace by html5 on web. In a few years in time, Photoshop will have competition for alternatives. In fact, those examples are already happening.
However, the fundamental concepts of the software remind the same. Whether it is vector drawing, scripting or pixel altering.
As long as, they are taught the concept not the procedure, they can adopt. Just like the fishing rod, if you teach them how to use a fishing rod to fish, they will only know how to fish with a fishing rod. If you teach them the concept of fishing equipment, they will know how to adopt better tools and better strategics to fish.
And for art students, if they can't do a minor photoshopping with ms paint, I consider their study incomplete. There will come one day those artists arrive with the required software missing and a deadline ahead. It will be up to them to adopt to a solution.