Which of the following studies qualifies as research with human subjects according to federal regulations?

A study qualifies as research with human subjects if it involves systematic investigation designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge that includes collecting data through intervention or interaction with individuals or identifiable private information. In this case, a study of reading comprehension in 4th grade classrooms directly involves human subjects, specifically the students, as it assesses their understanding and performance in reading. This interaction with individuals to gather data about their learning and comprehension qualifies under federal regulations that define research involving human subjects.

The other choices do not meet the criteria for research involving human subjects in the same way. For instance, measuring physical fitness may not involve intervention directly impacting individuals’ behavior or gathering personal data. A review of past literature does not engage with human subjects at all, as it analyzes existing data rather than collecting new data from individuals. Similarly, while a survey about preferences for healthy eating does involve individuals, its focus on opinions or preferences without systematic investigation or interaction related to broader generalizable knowledge might not fit the stringent definition used for human subjects research according to federal regulations.