This paper addresses how to measure the performance of programs by measuring the outcomes of program participation for learners. Based on studies conducted in Tennessee in which adult learners reported a broader and more complex set of outcomes than the three "core indicators" mandated by Title II of the 1998 Workforce Investment Act (WIA), the paper suggests that learners have a different perspective on performance than the authors of WIA and their perspectives should be considered at the policy level and by local programs. Section 1 examines performance accountability in adult basic education and how it is being applied in the WIA, the National Reporting System, and 17 state plans. Section 2 reports on findings of the Tennessee Longitudinal Study of Adult Literacy and a subsequent qualitative study. The following findings of the Tennessee study of adult literacy learners are reported: (1) there is an increase in rate of employment; (2) increase in overall satisfaction with their financial situation; (3) overall increase in self esteem; (4) increase in involvement in community organizations; (5) positive change in three of eight literacy practices; and (6) increase in the number of people who thought a book was a good gift for a child. Findings from the Learner Identified Outcomes Study show that participants identified changes in their lives that can be grouped as literacy uses and changes in sense of self. Section 3 discusses implications of findings and alternative ways to assess the performance of adult basic education. (Contains 17 references.) (YLB)