RSI Module Overview and Objectives

RSIModule Overview and Objectives

What Is RSI?

Uploaded ImageRegular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) is a regulatory requirement in U.S. higher education that emphasizes the importance of consistent and meaningful engagement between instructors and students.

This interaction is required to be academically focused and should be initiated by the instructors, ensuring that there is a clear, instructional guidance and support throughout the course. The concept of RSI serves as a key differentiator between self-paced courses, where students learn independently, and instructor-led online courses that offer guided learning experiences.

The adherence to RSI standards is critical as it directly impacts an institution's eligibility to receive federal financial aid. This requirement underlines the importance of active teaching and learning processes in online education, aiming to maintain high-quality educational experiences regardless of the delivery method.

Why Focus on This Now?

Our District RSI policy was updated in December 2023, accreditation is on the horizon, and a recent faculty survey revealed the need for some RSI professional development. 

The updated RSI policy places greater emphasis on the frequency, type, and quality of interactions between students and instructors.

It also requires that instructors initiate interaction to improve learning rather than just being responsive.

Definitions 

Regular Interaction: Ongoing, consistent communication between instructor and student throughout the duration of the course.

Substantive Interaction: Interaction that is relevant and contributes to learning and comprehension of course content.

Contractual Obligation and Full Policy

Per the faculty contract, “for all courses offering online components there shall be regular and effective contact between the faculty member and the students as required by Title 5, Accreditation and GCCCD Standards” (§ Article 7, Section 18.1).  

Review the entire GCCCD RSI Policy in our DE Handbook.

Module Objectives

Here are the objectives we will achieve in this module:

  • Understand the Concept of RSI: You will be able to define Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) and explain its importance.

  • Identify RSI Strategies: You will learn to identify and differentiate between strategies that constitute RSI and those that do not.

  • Implement RSI in Course Design: You will be equipped to integrate RSI strategies into your online courses, using tools and approaches appropriate for your course and discipline, such as announcements, discussion boards, feedback mechanisms, and office hours.

  • Enhance Student Engagement: You will develop skills to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes through the application of RSI principles.

  • Evaluate and Adjust for RSI: You will be able to assess the effectiveness of RSI strategies in your courses and make informed adjustments to improve interaction and engagement.

  • Document and Demonstrate RSI for Accreditation: You will learn techniques for documenting RSI activities and interactions within your courses, ensuring visibility and accountability for accreditation purposes.

Contact

If you have feedback or questions, please inbox the current OE coordinator at adelle.roe@gcccd.edu.