Course Outline
Introduction
This section provides a general introduction to when to use 'machine learning' for government, what should be considered, and what it all means, including the pros and cons. Topics include data types (structured/unstructured/static/streamed), data validity/volume, data-driven vs. user-driven analytics, statistical models vs. machine learning models, challenges of unsupervised learning, bias-variance trade-off, iteration/evaluation, cross-validation approaches, supervised/unsupervised/reinforcement.
MAJOR TOPICS
1. Understanding Naive Bayes
- Basic concepts of Bayesian methods
- Probability
- Joint probability
- Conditional probability with Bayes' theorem
- The naive Bayes algorithm
- The naive Bayes classification
- The Laplace estimator
- Using numeric features with naive Bayes
2. Understanding Decision Trees
- Divide and conquer
- The C5.0 decision tree algorithm
- Choosing the best split
- Pruning the decision tree
3. Understanding Neural Networks
- From biological to artificial neurons
- Activation functions
- Network topology
- The number of layers
- The direction of information travel
- The number of nodes in each layer
- Training neural networks with backpropagation
- Deep Learning
4. Understanding Support Vector Machines
- Classification with hyperplanes
- Finding the maximum margin
- The case of linearly separable data
- The case of non-linearly separable data
- Using kernels for non-linear spaces
5. Understanding Clustering
- Clustering as a machine learning task
- The k-means algorithm for clustering
- Using distance to assign and update clusters
- Choosing the appropriate number of clusters
6. Measuring Performance for Classification
- Working with classification prediction data
- A closer look at confusion matrices
- Using confusion matrices to measure performance
- Beyond accuracy – other measures of performance
- The kappa statistic
- Sensitivity and specificity
- Precision and recall
- The F-measure
- Visualizing performance tradeoffs
- ROC curves
- Estimating future performance
- The holdout method
- Cross-validation
- Bootstrap sampling
7. Tuning Stock Models for Better Performance
- Using caret for automated parameter tuning
- Creating a simple tuned model
- Customizing the tuning process
- Improving model performance with meta-learning
- Understanding ensembles
- Bagging
- Boosting
- Random forests
- Training random forests
- Evaluating random forest performance
MINOR TOPICS
8. Understanding Classification Using the Nearest Neighbors
- The kNN algorithm
- Calculating distance
- Choosing an appropriate k
- Preparing data for use with kNN
- Why is the kNN algorithm lazy?
9. Understanding Classification Rules
- Separate and conquer
- The One Rule algorithm
- The RIPPER algorithm
- Rules from decision trees
10. Understanding Regression
- Simple linear regression
- Ordinary least squares estimation
- Correlations
- Multiple linear regression
11. Understanding Regression Trees and Model Trees
- Adding regression to trees
12. Understanding Association Rules
- The Apriori algorithm for association rule learning
- Measuring rule interest – support and confidence
- Building a set of rules with the Apriori principle
Extras
- Spark/PySpark/MLlib and Multi-armed bandits
Requirements
Python Expertise for Government
The Python programming language is a versatile tool that can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of various operations within government agencies. Its simplicity and readability make it an ideal choice for developing robust applications, automating tasks, and conducting data analysis. For government entities, Python's extensive library support and community-driven development ensure that it remains at the forefront of technological advancements, facilitating seamless integration into existing workflows. Additionally, Python's ability to handle large datasets and complex algorithms aligns well with the growing need for data-driven decision-making in the public sector.
Testimonials (7)
I thoroughly enjoyed the training and appreciated the deeper dive into the subject of Machine Learning. I appreciated the balance between theory and practical applications, especially the hands-on coding sessions. The trainer provided engaging examples and well-designed exercises that enhanced the learning experience. The course covered a wide range of topics, and Abhi demonstrated excellent expertise by answering all questions with clarity and ease.
Valentina
Course - Machine Learning
I appriciated the exercise that help me to undersand the theory and apply it step by step . as well the way the trainer explained everything in a simple and clear manner. It was easy to follow even though I'm not very experienced with Python, still, I didn't want to miss the opportunity to learn something that relly interests me. I also appreciated the variety of information provided and the trainer’s availability to explain and support us in understanding the concepts. After this course, machine learning concepts are much clear to me, and now I feel like I have a direction and a better undersantind of the topic.
Cristina
Course - Machine Learning
At the end of the training, I could see the real-life use-case of the subjects presented.
Daniel
Course - Machine Learning
I liked the pace, I liked the balance between theory and practice, the main topics covered and the way the trainer was able to put everything into balance. I also really like your training infrastructure, very practical to work with VMs
Andrei
Course - Machine Learning
Keeping it short and simple. Creating intuition and visual models around the concepts (decision tree graph, linear equations, calculating y_pred manually to prove how the model works).
Nicolae - DB Global Technology
Course - Machine Learning
It helped me achieve my goal of understanding ML. Much respect for Pablo for giving a proper introduction in this topic, since it becomes obvious after 3 days of training how vast this topic is. I have also enjoyed A LOT the idea of virtual machines you have provided, which had very good latency! It allowed every coursant to do experiments at their own pace.
Silviu - DB Global Technology
Course - Machine Learning
The way practical part, seeing the theory materializing into something practical is great.
