In a recent debate about the role of technology in education, many participants expressed their concerns over the impact of screen time on young learners. They feared that excessive use of devices could lead to cognitive issues, such as diminished attention spans and poor retention of information. One speaker, however, argued that when used appropriately, technology can be a valuable __________ in the learning process, enhancing student engagement and providing access to a wealth of resources.
Select the best word to fill in the blank based on the context of the passage.