Disagree strongly.
Plan your dive and dive your plan.
Planning involves 2 people agreeing to dive to agreed parameters which do not exceed the limits recommended by their certifying agency - ie a common depth and duration and an understanding of how much breathing gas is needed for the planned dive. (this would be a bare minimum in planning terms)
The depth and duration parameters can be sourced from tables or from a dive computer though my own preference would be from a table as for the new diver tables are more affordable.
I do believe that setting parameters before a dive can be as important as in water skills - it reduces risk before anyone gets in the water.
I believe that planning is important for all divers irrespective - it helps divers to dive within their limits and this helps to keep us safe. All the other things you mentioned are important too but if a dive plan is flawed before you get in the water it rarely gets safer once you are diving.
I am responding to the OP's original post that there is not enough time spent on the basics; I should include dive planning as well.
I have gotten stuck with "insta-buddies" who agrees with the dive plan, says they understand it, and they say they are ready; then they jump in the water and it is a whole other story. I am sure this has happened to people who are reading this thread.
You have planned your dive and then you get into the water and find out the diver you are with is flawed; parts of your plan becomes moot. Hopefully, rescue techniques have been discussed.