Hi Anne Marie -
Definitions may vary from place to place, so thanks for your question. Here
are the basic definitions that OVAE's projects are using:  
*	Content standards define what learners should know and be able to do
within a specific content area. 
*	Indicators or benchmarks describe the specific set of skills that
learners need to develop and achieve to meet the more broadly stated content
standards. 
*	Performance standards describe how well or to what extent learners
meet the content standards. 
*	Program standards describe the design, delivery, and management of
programs and instructional services. 
*	Curriculum frameworks outline the scope and sequence for
instruction.

These definitions can be found on the Adult Education Content Standards
Warehouse Website {http://www.adultedcontentstandards.org/default.aspand}
and in A Process Guide for Establishing Adult Education Content Standards
{http://www.adultedcontentstandards.org/howto.asp}.  

"Definitions" was a subject that the State Standards Consortia teams
discussed, so there are some related materials in the warehouse that might
interest you. Look under the Professional Development Materials >>> Start-up
at:
{http://www.adultedcontentstandards.org/field_resources.asp#professional}.  


Ronna

Ronna Spacone
Office of Vocational and Adult Education
U.S. Department of Education
(202) 245-7755
ronna.spacone at ed.gov