Algorithm for Learning from a Random Walk Oracle
Defense Date
7-23-2009
Graduation Date
Summer 1-1-2009
Availability
Campus Only
Submission Type
thesis
Degree Name
MS
Department
Computational Mathematics
School
McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts
Committee Chair
Jeffrey C. Jackson
Committee Member
Donald L. Simon
Keywords
Computational Learning, Fourier Analysis, Random Walk Oracle
Abstract
Learning Disjunctive Normal Form and Threshold of Parity functions are well-studied problems in computational learning theory. Under different learning models we can achieve different time complexities with respect to the size of the input. In this thesis, I consider using an oracle whose power lies in between membership and example oracles, the random walk oracle. I first study a heuristic algorithm for estimating the sum of squares of Fourier coefficients. Then I propose a new algorithm for learning under a random walk oracle and compare the performance of this algorithm with an algorithm previously proposed by Jackson and Wimmer. The performance of these two algorithms is evaluated empirically based on experiments on linear threshold functions, a special case of TOP. Finally, I prove a theorem showing how to efficiently generate a richer subclass of TOP functions from linear threshold functions, which could allow for broader testing of these algorithms.
Format
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Yang, X. (2009). Algorithm for Learning from a Random Walk Oracle (Master's thesis, Duquesne University). Retrieved from https://dsc.duq.edu/etd/1569