Reinforcement learning improves behaviour from evaluative feedback

Nature. 2015 May 28;521(7553):445-51. doi: 10.1038/nature14540.

Abstract

Reinforcement learning is a branch of machine learning concerned with using experience gained through interacting with the world and evaluative feedback to improve a system's ability to make behavioural decisions. It has been called the artificial intelligence problem in a microcosm because learning algorithms must act autonomously to perform well and achieve their goals. Partly driven by the increasing availability of rich data, recent years have seen exciting advances in the theory and practice of reinforcement learning, including developments in fundamental technical areas such as generalization, planning, exploration and empirical methodology, leading to increasing applicability to real-life problems.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Empirical Research
  • Feedback*
  • Markov Chains
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Reward
  • Time Factors