Abstract: ［Purpose/Significance］In the context of exploratory search experiments, the relationship of interest in search, emotional state, and the effect of search learning in the process of exploratory search has been discussed in combination with the theory of affective load.［Design/Methodology］Firstly, the data of 30 participants who completed the experimental tasks were obtained through user experiment. With the use of questionnaires and screen recording, specific values were got, including users’ interest level, search duration, and affective load. Then the conceptual map was developed and indicators were designed for scoring so as to get the search and learning results. Finally, SPSS was used for statistical analysis.［Findings/Conclusion］It has been found that the interest level has significant differences in search duration, affective load, emotional coping skills, and learning effects. In addition, emotional coping skills and affective load have significant positive and negative effects on search duration respectively, which also exerts indirect influence on learning effects by affecting the search duration.［Originality/Value］ This study has taken the "interest" factor into consideration and carried out empirical research in combination with affective load theory, and the conclusions will help guide users’ search and improve their search and learning effects.

Key words: Exploratory search, Information search, Learning behavior, Affective load, Interest