There are relatively few empirical studies that examine cultural differences in students’ beliefs and use of web-based learning systems. Asian and Western countries have different systems of thought which are rooted in their respective national culture. Although there are a number of theories to explain individuals’ behavior within different cultures, there are few that focused on web-based learning differences. In this study, we investigate the motivational differences among Chinese and Canadian online learners. We enhance our body of knowledge in two respects: moderating and mediating effects of intrinsic motivation in the two groups and the use of the ‘cognitive system of thought’ theory to extract meaning from the results.