NWI-NM048C
Machine Learning
Course infoSchedule
Course moduleNWI-NM048C
Credits (ECTS)9
CategoryMA (Master)
Language of instructionEnglish
Offered byRadboud University; Faculty of Science; Wiskunde, Natuur- en Sterrenkunde;
Lecturer(s)
Coordinator
prof. dr. H.J. Kappen
Other course modules lecturer
Contactperson for the course
prof. dr. H.J. Kappen
Other course modules lecturer
Lecturer
prof. dr. H.J. Kappen
Other course modules lecturer
Lecturer
dr. W.A.J.J. Wiegerinck
Other course modules lecturer
Academic year2017
Period
KW1-KW2  (04/09/2017 to 04/02/2018)
Starting block
KW1
Course mode
full-time
Remarks-
Registration using OSIRISYes
Course open to students from other facultiesYes
Pre-registrationNo
Waiting listNo
Placement procedure-
Aims
The aim of the course is to familiarize the student with the modern concepts of machine learning at the international research level. In particular:
  • The student understands the concepts of Bayesian inference and use it to derive a number of different machine learning methods, such as sparse regression models, multi-layered perceptrons, graphical models and Boltzmann Machines
  • The student is familiar with learning algorithms based on the maximum likelihood principle and Bayesian posterior estimation
  • The student is familiar with stochastic networks of interacting variables, thermodynamic concepts, and Monte Carlos sampling methods
  • The student is familiar with a number of approximate inference methods, such as the variational mean field method, belief propagation
  • The student is familiar with optimal control theory, stochastic optimal control theory and path integral control theory
  • The student is capable to write computer programs to implement the above methods
Content
The course provides an advanced introduction to the modern view on machine learning with emphasis on the Bayesian perspective. The course is intended for Master's students in physics as well as master's students in artificial intelligence/computer science with sufficient mathematical background. For artificial intelligence/computer science students it is highly recommended to to take the course Statistical machine learning prior to this course. 
For physics and math students, this course is the follow-up of the bachelor course Inleiding Machine Learning
The course provides a good preparation for a Masters' specialisation in Theoretical Neuroscience or Machine Learning.
Literature

• David MacKay, Information Theory, Inference and Learning Algorithms, Cambridge University press. The entire book can be viewed on-screen at http://www.inference.phy.cam.ac.uk/mackay/itila/book.html
• Several handouts will be distributed during the course

Teaching formats

• 32 hours lecture
• 32 hours problem session
Extra information teaching methods:

• 28 hours lectures that will be given mostly by the students, with teacher's clarification when necessary
• 28 hours of mathematical exercises and computer exercises

Topics
See the course website: http://www.snn.ru.nl/~bertk/machinelearning/

Test information
Examination is weighted average of homework assignments and presentations.
http://www.snn.ru.nl/~bertk/machinelearning

Prerequisites
The following courses are useful but not required: Voortgezette Kansrekening

Required materials
Book
David MacKay, Information Theory, Inference and Learning Algorithms, Cambridge University press. The entire book can be viewed on-screen at http://www.inference.phy.cam.ac.uk/mackay/itila/book.html
Handouts
Several handouts will be distributed during the course

Instructional modes
Course occurrence

Lecture

Tutorial

Tests
Tentamen
Test weight1
OpportunitiesBlock KW2, Block KW3