I have not yet even seen a GPS unit in operation
I find that almost unbelievable - to train someone to PPL level without showing them the greatest single way to broaden their horizons and go to interesting far away places.
I've never used an "electronic nav computer"; there is no need for one.
If
VFR, I plan the route on the paper chart (for CAS and terrain clearance), in minutes draw it in
Navbox Pro, print off the plog, optionally enter it (using waypoint
names, never coordinates) into the GPS, and fly the GPS track.
If
IFR, it's planned using one
website, verified using another
website, loaded into the GPS and off one goes.
No wind calculations are ever done (other than how it affects GS and thus range) because with a GPS one gets continuous track guidance.