Cognitive Science 0277 - Artificial Neural Networks

Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) are computational devices loosely based on the brain. Basic nodes perform a very simple computation, and complex behavior emerges only after connecting a high number of these neurons to each other. Recent results in using massive amounts of data and CPU power have shown promising results in complicated human-like tasks, such as automatically describing scenes depicted in computer images, or extracting information from online text documents. This course will provide students with background information on these recent developments, and allow them to design their own data processing experiments with state-of-the-art artificial neural network simulation software. Prerequisite: at least a year worth of college level courses in one or more of the following cognitive science disciplines: computer programming, linguistics, statistics, neurosciences.

Quantitative Skills Writing and Research In this course, students are expected to spend at least ten hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research.