1.2. Exploring Machine Learning

Unit 1.2. Exploring Machine Learning

Unit 1.2 Machine Learning

Machine learning (ML) is the development of algorithms and associated systems that can learn
behavior strategies within specific environments through instructions and training data sets.
• As a subset of artificial intelligence, machine learning largely eschews some of the largest and
more philosophical AI concerns to emphasize approaches to learning and training that can
create effective machines for any given environment.
• This discipline focuses on statistical models, algorithms, and learning techniques that can shape
machines in industries as diverse as manufacturing, retail, supply chain logistics, food
production, and construction.


Several approaches to ML
• Supervised Learning: Under supervised learning models, data scientists provide training data sets to ML systems with a directory of inputs and associated desired outputs. Under this approach, the machine learning system can understand the intended results of a given set of actions and build optimal strategies around getting those results.


• Unsupervised Learning: As is easily inferred from the name, unsupervised learning
approaches use unstructured data sets without associated, ideal outputs. It is then up to the machine learning system to understand patterns in the data sets to develop strategies for behavior.


• Reinforcement Learning: Reinforcement learning, typically used to train independent
machine agents in a given system, uses models of cumulative rewards to train agents how to act in different systems. This application of ML is used in multiple industries, but there has been significant research in this area in online multiplayer games.


• Deep Learning and Neural Networks: researchers developed “neural network” brains utilizing node-cluster structures and weighted decision-making strategies. This way, machine learning systems could break down complex problems into simpler ones, and the results of more straightforward problems could come together as a more comprehensive solution for larger ones.

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