The interpretation of results: an element of meaning for statistical inference

ABSTRACT In a hypothesis test and analysis of variance open-ended problem, we analyzed the answers given by (N = 224) psychology students from the University of Huelva, Spain in relation to the meaning reached by the students in the interpretation for both results. After solving the problems, they were asked to interpret the results in terms of the problem. We use the onto-semiotic approach to mathematical cognition as a theoretical framework. As part of this framework, we consider the mathematical objects, the processes involved and the results, with the aim of discovering semiotic conflicts that lead to institutionally inadequate responses. We present a detailed classification of the semiotic conflicts that emerge from the analysis of these tasks carried out by the students.