ABSTRACT
Performance-approach goals are one of two types of performance goals. Unlike mastery goals, performance goals indicate a desire to demonstrate competence rather than engaging in learning for its own sake. Generally, performance goals are considered to be less adaptive than mastery goals, but performance-approach goals are associated with more positive academic outcomes than performance-avoidance goals. This entry summarises the definition of performance-approach goals followed by an example of a performance-approach goal and a performance-focused classroom. Historical conceptualisations of the definition of performance goals and research regarding achievement-related outcomes are reviewed.
