I think Andrew is basically right, but would split technology from preparation. Once you've got the miles in, it's easy to forget just how different some perfectly normal activities seem to people who havn't done it. I'm guessing everyone here can fix a puncture? Don't forget, at any UK biker type cafe, you'll find dozens who've never so much as adjusted their own chain. Drop them up woodland trail in Finland or the Baja and without preparation they are well and truely stuffed. I'll help anyone, but it does get a tad annoying when they havn't brought along their own tubes, spanners, levers etc. and simply expect you to impersonate the AA. I've never left anyone stuck, but I'm afraid I'm not beyond making my feelings known to people who aren't showing any signs of wanting to learn. Asking questions is learning, so I think posts here about any gadgets are a good thing if only to point out good levers and a bottle of soap are a better friend than any £40 bit of ally that looks like a medieval Japanese weapon.

The modern solution for a lack of skill and time to learn seems to be technology though. It is far easier and quicker to post a "is the TouraMW tyre removing widgit better than the yellow gloop" on here than go learn how to do it yourself with levers. People get a nice feeling from the certainly that the gadget will bypass lack of skill. As you say, we are often disapointed.

I've really nothing against GPS or any technology that works and the person can use. GPS works and is quick and easy. I can read a map, navigate using a sun compass, magnetic compass and might even manage a bit of celestial navigation at a push, but am truely awful at languages. I find GPS a useful tool in the same way I have a set of tyre lever I'm comfortable with. I know people who are really good at languages and can't work a microwave oven or fill in their own cheque stubbs. In their case, asking directions could well be the way to go.

Preparation: yes, make sure you know the basics and don't try to skip directly from a London-Brighton to a London-Cape Town.
Technology: use what works for you and know what you've got. Don't get hung up on bits of laser cut aluminium.

Andy