252-0526-00L Statistical Learning Theory
Semester | Spring Semester 2015 |
Lecturers | J. M. Buhmann |
Periodicity | yearly recurring course |
Language of instruction | English |
Courses
Number | Title | Hours | Lecturers | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
252-0526-00 V | Statistical Learning Theory | 2 hrs |
| J. M. Buhmann | |||
252-0526-00 U | Statistical Learning Theory | 1 hrs |
| J. M. Buhmann |
Catalogue data
Abstract | The course covers advanced methods of statistical learning : PAC learning and statistical learning theory;variational methods and optimization, e.g., maximum entropy techniques, information bottleneck, deterministic and simulated annealing; clustering for vectorial, histogram and relational data; model selection; graphical models. |
Objective | The course surveys recent methods of statistical learning. The fundamentals of machine learning as presented in the course "Introduction to Machine Learning" are expanded and in particular, the theory of statistical learning is discussed. |
Content | # Boosting: A state-of-the-art classification approach that is sometimes used as an alternative to SVMs in non-linear classification. # Theory of estimators: How can we measure the quality of a statistical estimator? We already discussed bias and variance of estimators very briefly, but the interesting part is yet to come. # Statistical learning theory: How can we measure the quality of a classifier? Can we give any guarantees for the prediction error? # Variational methods and optimization: We consider optimization approaches for problems where the optimizer is a probability distribution. Concepts we will discuss in this context include: * Maximum Entropy * Information Bottleneck * Deterministic Annealing # Clustering: The problem of sorting data into groups without using training samples. This requires a definition of ``similarity'' between data points and adequate optimization procedures. # Model selection: We have already discussed how to fit a model to a data set in ML I, which usually involved adjusting model parameters for a given type of model. Model selection refers to the question of how complex the chosen model should be. As we already know, simple and complex models both have advantages and drawbacks alike. # Reinforcement learning: The problem of learning through interaction with an environment which changes. To achieve optimal behavior, we have to base decisions not only on the current state of the environment, but also on how we expect it to develop in the future. |
Lecture notes | no script; transparencies of the lectures will be made available. |
Literature | Duda, Hart, Stork: Pattern Classification, Wiley Interscience, 2000. Hastie, Tibshirani, Friedman: The Elements of Statistical Learning, Springer, 2001. L. Devroye, L. Gyorfi, and G. Lugosi: A probabilistic theory of pattern recognition. Springer, New York, 1996 |
Prerequisites / Notice | Requirements: basic knowledge of statistics, interest in statistical methods. It is recommended that Introduction to Machine Learning (ML I) is taken first; but with a little extra effort Statistical Learning Theory can be followed without the introductory course. |
Performance assessment
Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again) | |
Performance assessment as a semester course | |
ECTS credits | 4 credits |
Examiners | J. M. Buhmann |
Type | session examination |
Language of examination | English |
Repetition | The performance assessment is only offered in the session after the course unit. Repetition only possible after re-enrolling. |
Mode of examination | oral 15 minutes |
This information can be updated until the beginning of the semester; information on the examination timetable is binding. |
Learning materials
Main link | Information |
Only public learning materials are listed. |
Groups
No information on groups available. |
Restrictions
There are no additional restrictions for the registration. |