I used to take classes for softwares in form 1 to form 2, classes like flash, photoshop and dreamweaver.

I also used to make alot of graphics with photoshop around then, here's a link I loved visiting back then when making siggies and such. =D

http://www.good-tutorials.com/tutorials/photoshop

On the details, it really depends what you wanna show, there is no right or wrong in art afterall. =)

haha finally someone with the same passion like me. well I am also interested in both programming (C++!!) and animation. and you know what, I learn both. i am TOA animation student (3rd year now) and I study programming by myself. it's actually quite easy to learn programming by myself i just need some books, internet and start coding! everything else is just your own logical thinking - how you put your idea into coding. study animation at college while learning programming by yourself - i think its the best way.