Regular interaction is the requirement that an institution provide students with predictable and scheduled opportunities for substantive interaction with instructors on a predictable and regular basis.
How it works
The syllabus lists weekly or module-based interaction points-such as required discussion participation with instructor replies, scheduled live sessions, or guaranteed feedback turnaround times. Instructors follow the schedule and document their outreach. Students who fall behind receive proactive contact. The pattern is consistent enough that students can anticipate when interaction will occur.
Example: a syllabus states that the instructor will provide individualized feedback on every assignment within five business days and will host a weekly live question session. The instructor adheres to that schedule throughout the term, satisfying the regular-interaction requirement.
How it differs
Substantive interaction describes the academic quality of the exchange. Regular interaction describes its predictability and instructor initiation. Academic engagement is the student’s side of the activity. A single intensive interaction at the end of the term does not meet the regularity standard.
Common errors
Providing substantive feedback only when students ask, rather than on a scheduled basis. Listing office hours that are never used and that students have no reason to expect. Treating regularity as satisfied by the mere existence of an LMS without scheduled instructor activity.
References
- 1. 34 CFR 600.2 regular interactionPredictable and scheduled requirement
- 2. RSI implementation guidanceScheduling practices
Regular interaction is the requirement that an institution provide students with predictable and scheduled opportunities for substantive interaction with instructors on a predictable and regular basis.