These systems don't conflict. A child can learn to use a calculator and a touch telephone at the same time even though these keyboards are reversed, but this isn't confusing, the child knows that one is a phone, the other a calculator. She has no difficulty learning the difference. A common belief is that there are so many new high tech aids available for blind children, they don't have to learn out-dated Braille any more. These devices will not be useful for all the information the child needs.
Braille is portable, lightweight and versatile.
The slate and stylus or the Brailler are simple, low tech devices. If you want to consider high tech portable equipment, the Braille 'N Speak or the Braille Mate are excellent note taking and computer interface devices. With scanners and Braille printers Braille production will be limitless not obsolete. Another misconception is that a blind child doesn't have to read Braille because they can listen to a book on tape. Imagine if this theory applied to sighted children.