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Top 3 Machine Learning (ML) Subfields

18
Aug
2023
Technology
The Top 3 Machine Learning (ML) Subfields

In the ever-evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) has become increasingly important for several industries, from self-driving cars to medical diagnoses. 

I'm sure you didn't know that even half of enterprises use Machine Learning nowadays to boost their businesses! Undoubtedly, ML has revolutionized how we interact with tech.

That’s why this post will explore Machine Learning subfields and later discuss their relevance and applications today. Grab your blue filter glasses and read on!

What is Machine Learning?

What do you mean by what is .ml? Yeah, I know! We have talked several times about what Machine Learning is— yet a little updated data never hurt anyone! 

Among the subfields of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning allows computers to learn through ongoing human intervention.

Moreover, ML harnesses Computer Vision to develop programs that can teach themselves to grow and change when exposed to new data. 

In the context of Machine Learning, a pivoting example is Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), which learn by competing to generate whole new assets.

What are the Types of Machine Learning?

When discussing What is machine learning ML, it’s important to clarify that types and subfields are completely different things! 

Before moving on to what are ML subfields, let’s mention the three main categories of Machine Learning: Supervised, Unsupervised, and Reinforcement Learning.

1. Supervised Machine Learning: Supervised Learning uses labeled data to train an algorithm to predict unknown data accurately, inputting data associated with output labels and training the algorithm on this data to recognize complex patterns.

2. Unsupervised Machine Learning: Unlike SL, Unsupervised Learning focuses on finding patterns and structures in data without relying on labeled data to discover hidden connections and valuable insights from large datasets.

3. Reinforcement Machine Learning: Lastly, Reinforcement Learning uses decision-making algorithms to learn from repeated interactions with an environment, focused on agent development that can interact to take action to achieve specific goals.

Top 3 Fields in Machine Learning

1. Deep Learning

Deep Learning (DL) uses deep Neural Networks to solve complex problems and create predictive models. People tend to confuse it with Machine Learning, yet there are some key differences between ML and DL.

First, Deep Learning doesn't require structured data analysis or human intervention to identify mistakes. Regardless, it also requires significant computer power, and building a DL model can take weeks. 

Lastly, DL‍ forecasts, predicts, and other simple applications allow for more complex applications like autonomous vehicles.

An example of Deep Learning can be a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), which is a network that comprises convolutional layers that filter data from input images.

CNNs have non-linear activation functions like ReLU that introduce non-linearity into the model. This approach pools layers that reduce the data dimensions and fully connects layers for classifying images. 

2. Natural Language Processing

Meanwhile, Natural Language Processing (NLP) focuses on computer processing, understanding, and interpreting human-written text's meaning. 

Due to the increasing availability of large datasets, faster data analysis methods, and the development of more powerful ML algorithms, NLP has grown significantly in recent years.

Moreover, NLP uses algorithms and statistical methods to map human communication into a structured form that computers can process.

NLP tech has various applications, such as sentiment analysis, speech synthesis, language translation, and part-of-speech tagging. 

By leveraging AI and Machine Learning, these applications can automate many tasks that would otherwise be too time-consuming or challenging for humans to complete. 

With the help of NLP, businesses have developed more efficient systems for extracting valuable information from large amounts of textual data.

3. Neural Networks (NN)

Neural Networks aim to work like a human brain to process inputs and outputs through interconnected layers known as neurons.

At the most basic level, Neural Networks consist of input, hidden, and output layers, and they further aim to learn from data and create accurate models for predictive tasks. 

Here, the input layer receives data from the outside environment and passes it to the hidden layer. 

Later, the hidden layer processes the information using mathematical functions and weights, determining how much each variable will affect the output. 

Lastly, the NN output layer produces a result based on what they have learned.

The Future of Machine Learning Subfields

ML subfields' future is incredibly promising! 

First, Deep Learning can revolutionize a wide array of industries by enabling it to simulate human intelligence processing patterns.

Likewise, advancements in Natural Language Processing could lead to more seamless interactions between humans and machines, improving productivity and experiences.

However, these projections come with a note of caution, as careful regulation is needed to ensure ethical considerations keep pace with technology and prevent misuse. 

It's also vital to consider the risk of cyber-attacks since these have become increasingly frequent and sophisticated in recent years, disrupting businesses worldwide.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to use it for predictive analytics or NLP, there is certainly something within the world of Machine Learning that could help your business reach its goals.

We hope this article helps you clarify what is ML and how the different fields in Machine Learning can take business operations to the next level!