I am also taking the Nitrox course through PADI right now and in my instruction books they make a strong point that nitrox diving should be done with a computer and that the tables are taught so that the knowledge is accessible for a situation where a computer is unavailable or fails.
I fill out my log book still because I enjoy doing it, but for me this is not necessary. My computer downloads my dive profile to the computer and I am able to export all that information when I need to prove my dives for a future certification. It stores and exports all usefull information and when I download I am also able to add notes, equipment, dive buddy, dive master, boat, etc, etc.
Once you have a computer I would not worry about pressure groups. Tables are now a back up only, but you should know how to use them, especially with Notrox. This information is straight out of the PADI Nitrox Course.
Safe diving to all...