Delta PDC Portal

Regular Substantive Interaction (RSI)

San Joaquin Delta College is committed to delivering high-quality online education that meets the highest standards of accreditation and student success. Federal regulations and the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) require that all online courses demonstrate Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) between faculty and students.

RSI ensures that:

  • Faculty facilitate meaningful discussions

  • Instructors respond to student inquiries in a timely manner

  • Students receive formative feedback on their work

  • Synchronous and asynchronous instruction is thoughtfully balanced

This training initiative ensures our faculty are well-equipped to meet these standards and provide an engaging, supportive, and compliant online learning environment.

  • New faculty hires: Must complete RSI certification before teaching fully online courses.

  • Current faculty teaching online: Must complete certification by December 31, 2026 to continue teaching fully online courses.

Faculty who do not complete training by the deadline will be ineligible to teach fully online courses until certification is achieved.

We recognize that this training requires an investment of time and effort from our faculty. To honor that commitment:

  • Faculty receive a $750 stipend upon completion of the RSI training.

  • Stipends are processed within 60 days of successful course completion.

This recognition underscores the college’s appreciation for faculty leadership in maintaining instructional quality and compliance. 

RSI training is not just a one-time requirement. It is part of an ongoing commitment to excellence. Faculty must complete updated training every five years to remain eligible to teach fully online. Options include:

  • RSI recertification

  • Advanced Canvas training

  • Equity-based online design workshops

  • Approved professional development in online pedagogy and design

Faculty may also submit equivalent training from other institutions or agencies for review and approval.

This collaborative effort between the District and the San Joaquin Delta College Teachers’ Association (SJDCTA) reflects our shared commitment to:

  • Upholding accreditation standards

  • Supporting faculty development

  • Ensuring student success in online learning

Together, we are building a culture of innovation, accountability, and excellence in distance education.

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