M_the_Knife,
I program in C for DOS all the time, so know something of its attractions. And I produce graphical output.
My DOS programs do run on Windoze machines, including XP machines.
I suppose we both agree that the average air-head non-technical student would be challenged enough by the mainsteam M$ Office software. And that is what they'll need on most jobs.
As a paradox, it would be the more advanced students who could be most capable of making best use of lesser machines.
SC