What is Research and What it isn’t? And Who is a Human Subject Anyway? – Explaining the Common Rule in Plain Language

Reviews two of the foundational elements of the Common Rule—when something is or is not research and when an individual is or is not a human subject.

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About this Webinar

This webinar explains when an activity is or is not considered research, and who is or is not a human subject according to the Common Rule. The webinar is intended to help Institutional Review Board (IRB) administrators, researchers (including student researchers), reviewers, grant reviewers, institutional leaders, and anyone else who works in an area related to human subjects research understand key terms in the Common Rule.

Note: This webinar is part of the OHRP webinars on 45 CFR 46. It is also available at no charge at https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/education-and-outreach/human-research-protection-training/ohrp-webinars-on-45-cfr-46/index.html.

Original Recording Date: June 6, 2022

Release Date: May 29, 2025

Language Availability: English

Suggested Audiences: Grant Reviewers, Human Subject Protection Staff, Institutional Leadership, IRB Administrators, IRB Members, Research Personnel, Researchers, Students

Organizational Subscription Price: Included as part of an annual subscription to our All Access Webinar Package
Independent Learner Price: N/A


Webinar Content

What is Research and What it isn't? And Who is a Human Subject Anyway? – Explaining the Common Rule in Plain Language

Presented by: HHS Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) Division of Education and Development (DED)

Learning Objectives:

  • Review and explain the regulatory definitions for “research” and “human subject.”
  • Provide examples to demonstrate what does and does not constitute research and who is and who is not a human subject.
  • Describe when the regulatory requirements apply and when they do not.

Recommended Use: Required
ID (Language): 21784 (English)


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