Federal Foundation of RSI
Regular and substantive interaction (RSI) has been around for quite some time but let's take a moment to brush up on the basics. The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) outlines rules that affect programs like federal financial aid under Title IV - under Title 34, Education, Part 600, Institutional Eligibility Under the Higher Education Act of 1965, as Amended. Specifically, the definition for distance education is where requirements regarding RSI reside (34 C.F.R. ยง 600.2). Previously, the guidance was simply "to support regular and substantive interaction." As of July 1, 2021, the federal regulation now clarifies what is expected for each requirement - including regular and substantive interaction. Our current training has done a great job estimating the expectations from the beginning, but the redesigned RSI training course will offer updated content aligned with the new details about what defines regular and substantive. For instance, the new content includes video testimonials from DSC faculty sharing tried & true tips for accomplishing these federal expectations in your courses. Take a look at the video below, taken directly from the new course, that quickly walks you through the federal regulation for elements most relevant to your teaching practices.
Is Training in Your Future?
All DSC faculty are required to complete RSI training. New faculty members will complete this training starting later this Fall. Existing faculty members who have already successfully completed RSI are not required to retake the training. This blog series will include many videos from the new training and registration is open any time you are interested in experiencing the new content - written insights, interactive H5P activities, and a community discussion area to bounce ideas around with your DSC network of peers.
Coming Soon: RSI Trailer
Several faculty who have completed and practiced RSI are featured in the new and improved training to share practical examples you can try in your course right away. Curious about what's to come in this new training? Check out this course refresh trailer!
Stay In Touch
As always, please reach out if you have any questions, or feel free to schedule a one-on-one appointment for help. Also, if you haven't done so already please consider subscribing to this blog to stay up-to-date with the latest tips and news!
Jasmine Checchi
Instructional Designer, Division of Online Studies
jasmine.checchi@daytonastate.edu | 386-506-4278
Online Studies | Faculty Innovation Center (FIC)