The Importance of the Darkroom In Photographic Education

This is some question! It astounds me that schools are even considering getting rid of their analog darkrooms. However, I know that several departments have gotten rid of what artists would deem irresponsible, so is this the way of the word? Getty is no longer taking negatives - digital only! Personally, I do not understand it. I feel that just because the computer came along and is an excellent tool, there is no reason to throw out the analog education. The computer is a tool - a tool that is important and useful, but not the be all end all of photography. There is a place for both and there is room for both. I guess I am stumped by the "either/or" question and do not understand why it should not be both! As someone that loves historical techniques, I also embrace the computer (well, I did come to it kicking and screaming, but it is ok now!). There are reasons for both. For me the best reason for analog is historical - I think it is very important to learn the beginning techniques and how we got to where we are. Even if the darkroom is taught within a historical context - it should never be lost.