There is a conflict between the information system's traditional patterns of information provision and the user's natural process of information use. This antipathy is particularly evident where the user is seeking to learn something new and is confronted with a substantial amount of unique, unfamiliar information. For example, consideration for the user's threshold of tolerance for uniqueness and redundancy of information in the stages of an evolving learning process. The certainty and order assumption projects the notion that the singular task of information seeking is to gather and collect rather than that of reflecting and interpreting within a constructive process of learning. These models or expectations do not match the actual experience of the user as a learner in the information search process.
Learners experience information seeking as a holistic process within varied social contexts.
The stage of the user's problem in the process of information seeking makes a vast difference in the thoughts, feelings and actions experienced while using an information system. A dip in confidence is commonly experienced in the early stages of the process when conflicting, inconsistent information is encountered which is incompatible with previously- held constructs. We don't know how many people turn away and drop out at this point. However, uncertainty appears to be, not only natural, but essential for deep learning to be achieved. After a focused perspective has been formed the person is likely to be more engaged, interested and confident.