Saab I agree that if you want to become competent you need to learn the basics, however the very first thing to learn is what is a good shot.

You could do that with a picture frame, for someone starting out on this journey today in this century needs to start with Digital camera. Film although superior is all but dead now for the average Joe.

If Tension had the money I would say a digital SLR from the outset, at least he has P mode to start with then once he becomes competent everything else he could want from a camera. But there is not enough money right now.