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Viraj Lakshitha Bandara
Viraj Lakshitha Bandara

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What is Machine Learning?

Machine learning is an application of artificial intelligence (AI) that provides systems with the ability to automatically learn and improve from experience without being explicitly programmed. Machine learning focuses on the development of computer programs that can access data and use it to learn for themselves.

The process of learning begins with observations or data, such as examples, direct experience, or instruction, in order to look for patterns in data and make better decisions in the future based on the examples that we provide. The primary aim is to allow the computers to learn automatically without human intervention or assistance and adjust actions accordingly.

Type of Machine Learning Methods

Supervised Machine Learning algorithms can apply what has been learned in the past to new data using labelled examples to predict future events. Starting from the analysis of a known training dataset, the learning algorithm produces an inferred function to make predictions about the output values. The system is able to provide targets for any new input after sufficient training. The learning algorithm can also compare its output with the correct, intended output and find errors in order to modify the model accordingly.

In contrast, unsupervised machine learning algorithms are used when the information used to train is neither classified nor labelled. Unsupervised learning studies how systems can infer a function to describe a hidden structure from unlabeled data. The system doesn’t figure out the right output, but it explores the data and can draw inferences from datasets to describe hidden structures from unlabeled data.

Semi-supervised Machine Learning algorithms fall somewhere in between supervised and unsupervised learning since they use both labelled and unlabeled data for training — typically a small amount of labelled data and a large amount of unlabeled data. The systems that use this method are able to considerably improve learning accuracy. Usually, semi-supervised learning is chosen when the acquired labelled data requires skilled and relevant resources in order to train it / learn from it. Otherwise, acquiring unlabeled data generally doesn’t require additional resources.

Reinforcement Machine Learning algorithms is a learning method that interacts with its environment by producing actions and discovers errors or rewards. Trial and error search and delayed reward are the most relevant characteristics of reinforcement learning. This method allows machines and software agents to automatically determine the ideal behaviour within a specific context in order to maximize its performance. Simple reward feedback is required for the agent to learn which action is best; this is known as the reinforcement signal.

Machine Learning Application Source Code
GitHub

Sinhala Character Recognition Model using KNN
Iris Flower Identification using KNN
Diabetics Prediction System
ChatBot using NLP

Top comments (1)

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Johnny Willis

Thanks for sharing this explanation of what machine learning is. I think as interesting as this is, once we understand what machine learning is and how it works,what is important is to look into the applications of machine learning- the machine learning use cases, explorium.ai/usecases/, which apply what machine learning is and what it can do to real world, business applications. These use cases are how machine learning revolutionises how we do business.