Before beginning a research activity, you need to answer three critical questions about it:

• Is the activity in which you will be engaged RESEARCH (as defined by 45 CFR 46)?

  "A systematic investigation designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge." 

• Will the activity involve HUMAN SUBJECTS (as defined by the 45 CFR 46)?

A human subject is involved if:
The person is alive, and
Data pertaining to the person will be obtained through:
   intervention
   interaction
   a private confidential source

• Have you submitted a research protocol for  IRB REVIEW and received APPROVAL?