Select the phrase/connector from the given three options which can be used to form a single sentence from the two sentences given below, implying the same as expressed in the statement sentences.
A blend of offline-online learning should be the path for the future. This is because the transition from brick-and-mortar schools to technology-based learning has its challenges.
1. as
2. as well as
3. although
1
Only 1
2
Only 2
3
Only 3
4
Both 1 and 3
5
None of these