What Is Deep Learning
What Is Deep Learning
What Is Deep Learning
Deep learning is a subset of machine learning, which is essentially a neural network with three or
more layers. These neural networks attempt to simulate the behavior of the human brain—albeit
far from matching its ability—allowing it to “learn” from large amounts of data. While a neural
network with a single layer can still make approximate predictions, additional hidden layers can
help to optimize and refine for accuracy.
Deep learning drives many artificial intelligence (AI) applications and services that improve
automation, performing analytical and physical tasks without human intervention. Deep learning
technology lies behind everyday products and services (such as digital assistants, voice-enabled
TV remotes, and credit card fraud detection) as well as emerging technologies (such as self-
driving cars).
Deep learning eliminates some of data pre-processing that is typically involved with machine
learning. These algorithms can ingest and process unstructured data, like text and images, and it
automates feature extraction, removing some of the dependency on human experts. For example,
let’s say that we had a set of photos of different pets, and we wanted to categorize by “cat”,
“dog”, “hamster”, et cetera. Deep learning algorithms can determine which features (e.g. ears)
are most important to distinguish each animal from another. In machine learning, this hierarchy
of features is established manually by a human expert.
Then, through the processes of gradient descent and backpropagation, the deep learning
algorithm adjusts and fits itself for accuracy, allowing it to make predictions about a new photo
of an animal with increased precision.
Machine learning and deep learning models are capable of different types of learning as well,
which are usually categorized as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement
learning. Supervised learning utilizes labeled datasets to categorize or make predictions; this
requires some kind of human intervention to label input data correctly. In contrast, unsupervised
learning doesn’t require labeled datasets, and instead, it detects patterns in the data, clustering
them by any distinguishing characteristics. Reinforcement learning is a process in which a model
learns to become more accurate for performing an action in an environment based on feedback in
order to maximize the reward.
For a deeper dive on the nuanced differences between the different technologies, see "AI vs.
Machine Learning vs. Deep Learning vs. Neural Networks: What’s the Difference?"
For a closer look at the specific differences between supervised and unsupervised learning, see
"Supervised vs. Unsupervised Learning: What's the Difference?"
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