What is RSI?

Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) is a federal requirement for all online courses that seek eligibility for federal financial aid. RSI means instructors must be actively engaged with students throughout the course, providing meaningful, academic interaction that supports learning.

Why Does RSI Matter?

• Legal compliance: RSI is required by federal law (34 CFR Part 600), state regulations, and accrediting agencies. Colleges and universities must monitor and ensure RSI is present in all online courses.
• Financial aid eligibility: Without RSI, your course could be considered a correspondence course, making students ineligible for federal financial aid.
• Accreditation and program approval: Failure to meet RSI requirements can result in accreditation issues, denial of new online programs, and loss of the ability to offer online education.
• Student success: Courses with strong RSI lead to better engagement, deeper understanding, and higher student satisfaction.

What Are the Consequences of Not Meeting RSI?

• Loss of federal financial aid: Students may lose eligibility for aid.
• Fines and repayment: Institutions may be required to repay significant amounts in financial aid.
• Accreditation risks: Accreditation and approval of new programs may be denied.
• Loss of online programs: The ability to offer online education may be revoked.

What Counts as RSI?

• Instructor-initiated: Interaction must be started by the instructor, not only in response to student questions.
• Regular and predictable: Contact should happen often and on a set schedule, so students know when to expect support.
• Substantive: Interaction must be about course content and help students learn—not just reminders about due dates.

Examples of RSI include:

• Providing feedback on assignments
• Leading or facilitating discussions
• Hosting live sessions or office hours
• Sending content-focused announcements
• Monitoring and responding to student progress

How to Strengthen Your Online Course

• Set clear expectations: Use your syllabus to explain how and when you will communicate with students.
• Be present: Post regular announcements, provide personalized feedback, and participate in discussions.
• Update your content: Review and refresh your materials based on student questions and feedback.
• Monitor engagement: Proactively reach out to students who may need extra support.
• Document your activities: Keep records of your instructor-initiated interactions within your learning management system.

Grove Center Resources

• RSI Rubric: Use our RSI Rubric (PDF) to assess your course and find new ways to strengthen your RSI.
• Support: Contact the Grove Center for help with course updates and RSI strategies.

External Resources

• OSCQR SUNY RSI Guidance
• Central Michigan University CIS Blog
• California Community Colleges RSI Rubric Example (PDF)
• 21 ways to structure an online discussion (PDF)

Let’s work together to create online science courses that are engaging, supportive, and successful for all students!

References

1. William & Mary: Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) Resources
2. McLennan Community College: RSI Resources
3. College of the Sequoias: RSI Training and Resources
4. Austin Peay State University: Regular and Substantive Interaction
5. Oregon State University: Regular and Substantive Interaction