What is Supervised Learning?

The process begins by providing a training dataset to the algorithm, containing examples of both inputs and correct outputs. The model analyzes this data and learns the mapping function between the input features and output labels. This allows the model to make accurate predictions when it encounters new data. For example, in teaching a model to identify rooftops on satellite data, a labeled dataset with different rooftops and their respective labels helps the algorithm recognize characteristics specific to each rooftop shape.

Once the model has been trained and validated, it can be used to make predictions on unknown data based on the knowledge it has acquired. As the model continues to learn from the data, it refines its accuracy and minimizes errors. The following shows a typical graph, where the error (or more precisely the loss) decreases the more a model is trained, until it reaches a level where more training would not lead to better capabilities anymore.

Supervised learning is generally divided into two main categories: classification and regression.

Classification is used to group data into distinct categories based on the input data. It is particularly useful when output variables are categorical, such as "spam" and "not spam" in email filtering. Classification models analyze various features, such as the sender, subject line, and body copy of emails, to determine whether an email should be classified as spam. Another example might be the classification of customer requests.

Regression is used to predict continuous values, such as future sales revenue or housing prices. The algorithm detects relationships between two or more variables and projects future outcomes. For instance, predicting a salary based on work experience and other factors is a regression task. While linear regressions or logistic regressions are well-known among data scientist, do you arelady know what a Bayesian linear regression is?

Supervised learning has a wide range of applications across different industries:

• Risk Assessment: Financial institutions use supervised learning to assess the likelihood of customers defaulting on loans, helping them minimize risk.

• Image Classification: Algorithms can be trained to classify objects in images and videos, such as identifying people in photos and tagging them on social media.

• Fraud Detection: Supervised learning models can flag suspicious activity in real time, helping enterprises detect fraudulent transactions.

• Recommendation Systems: Streaming services and online platforms use supervised learning to recommend content based on previous user behavior.

The key distinction between supervised and unsupervised learning lies in the type of data used to train the model. Supervised learning relies on labeled data to teach a model a specific goal, while unsupervised learning uses unlabeled data and allows the model to learn autonomously. This fundamental difference shapes how the models operate and the kinds of problems they can solve. 

In summary, supervised learning is a critical aspect of machine learning that enables organizations to derive insights from data, make accurate predictions, and solve real-world problems. By training models with labeled datasets, supervised learning helps businesses automate processes and improve decision-making.

• Supervised learning vs. unsupervised learning

• Supervised learning for legal contracts

• Recorded talks on AI & Machine Learning