The purpose of this study is to investigate the problems associated with learner motivation in Web-based instruction, in particular in self-directed online learning environments. This study is interested in identifying and exploring what motivate or demotivate learners from completing a self-directed online course, which have implications for designing motivating online learning environments. In more detail, this study will answer the following questions: (1) What are motivating and inhibiting factors to learn in self-directed online learning environments? (2) Does learner motivation change during instruction? if so, how? and (3) Are there individual differences in learners' motivational levels in self-directed online learning environments? The results of this study are expected to increase our understanding of the motivational needs of the participants of self-directed online computer training by identifying what motivate or demotivate them to learn computer skills in a self-directed learning environment. The results of the study are expected to inform instructional designers of how to design a motivating online learning environment.