Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine how the implementation of learner outcomes in public high schools would impact the role of students, teachers, and support staff; the way in which instruction is delivered and assessed; and the nature and allocation of resources. Methodology. The researcher used descriptive research. An expert panel of eleven national researchers and practitioners completed a two round Delphi questionnaire to generate a list of items likely to be impacted at schools implementing learner outcomes. Experienced practitioners used items from the Delphi questionnaire to identify items of concern and suggest response strategies. Findings. (1) Many of the items tended to rate higher for potential impact than for likelihood supporting the idea that if schools want to improve, serious planning must occur to reduce the barriers that make implementation less likely. (2) Implementing learner outcomes opens the way to change many aspects of a public high school. The expert panel produced a list of diverse items that must be addressed at schools pursuing implementation of learner outcomes. To implement learner outcomes is to implement a powerful force for restructuring education. (3) While support staff will be impacted by the implementation of learner outcomes, items related to students and teachers were the only ones with sufficient ratings for likelihood and impact and general agreement to be included in the study. Conclusions. (1) The implementation of learner outcomes in public high schools will impact the three elements studied by changing what students and teachers do, how they work together, and what resources they use. (2) Implementing learner outcomes is not like implementing a program purchased from a vendor or inserting a new textbook into an existing course. It evolves in its own way as determined by the skills, knowledge, and capacities of the staff, students, and community. The staff must be trained and supported to be successful in this endeavor. (3) Experienced practitioners are well prepared to provide assistance to school staffs preparing to implement learner outcomes. The response strategies proposed should be considered by a staff planning to implement learner outcomes. Recommendations. (1) Analyze the readiness of those involved in or affected by significant school change. (2) Allow substantial amount of time over a long period. (3) Plan for implementation expenses to support staff development, training, resources, and research. (4) Involve all staff, not a representative group. (5) Secure broad-base support from the diverse school community.