Hybrid Learning Guide for Faculty

Regular Substantive Interaction (RSI) refers to consistent, meaningful engagement between online students and instructors. Rather than simply providing content for students to passively consume, RSI focuses on active participation and interaction that supports learning.

Federal regulations now require all online courses that use Title IV financial aid to include regular, instructor-initiated, and academically relevant interactions (U.S. Department of Education). Examples include:

• Providing context through recorded lectures or videos

• Facilitating discussions and group work

• Hosting live sessions or virtual office hours

• Offering personalized feedback and assessment

• Responding to student questions about course content

These practices help students stay engaged, clarify content, and build active learning communities online.

Ways to Strengthen RSI
The Ohio State University suggests improving RSI by:

• Setting clear expectations

• Sending regular course announcements

• Giving detailed and timely feedback

• Facilitating discussions and online sessions

• Using interactive tools and mid-course feedback

• Seeking input from colleagues

(Source: U.S. Department of Education and The Ohio State University)

In Jason Johnston, PhD, on Regular Substantive Interaction (RSI), learn about what RSI is, why it matters, and how you can incorporate it into your courses.