Let's get it clear what is what:
Macromedia Flash is a 2d animation software
Maya is a 3d modeling and animation sowftware
What you need to know in order to decide what to learn is, what you ultimately want to accomplish. If you want to make presentations, web animatios etc. stuffs you have to go with Flash.
On the other had if you want to make real life like objects and animations for T.V. or other broadcasting you should learn a 3d program. But definitely do not start with Maya. Start with a simpler one like Bryce. Get a feel of what 3d programs are!
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