Question 1

What is reinforcement learning, and why is it important to learn about?

Accepted Answer

Reinforcement learning is a machine learning paradigm in which software agents use a process of trial and error to learn how to complete tasks in a way that maximizes cumulative rewards as defined by their programmers. In contrast to supervised learning paradigms, reinforcement learning systems do not need labeled input/output pairs or explicit corrections of suboptimal actions; and, in contrast to unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning defines an explicit goal, which is the maximization of the value returned by the Q-learning (or “quality” learning) algorithm as a result of its actions.

Because it combines the goal orientation of supervised learning with the flexibility of unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning is very important in creating artificial intelligence (AI) applications requiring successful problem-solving in complex situations. For example, they are often used in financial engineering to develop optimal trading algorithms for the stock market. They are also used to build intelligent systems to allow robots and self-driving cars to navigate real-world environments safely.

Question 2

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in reinforcement learning?

Accepted Answer

As one of the main paradigms for machine learning, reinforcement learning is an essential skill for careers in this fast-growing field. Reinforcement learning is particularly important for developing artificially intelligent digital agents for real-world problem-solving in industries like finance, automotive, robotics, logistics, and smart assistants. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for machine learning engineers in America is $114,121 per year, a high level of pay which reflects the high level of demand for this expertise.

Question 3

Can I learn about reinforcement learning by taking online courses on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Coursera hosts a wide variety of courses in reinforcement learning and related topics in machine learning, as well as the use of these techniques in applied contexts such as finance and self-driving cars. These courses and Specializations are offered by top-ranked institutions in this field, including the deepmind.ai, New York University, the University of Toronto, and the University of Alberta’s Machine Intelligence Institute. You can learn remotely on a flexible schedule while still getting feedback from expert professors and instructors, ensuring that you’ll get a high quality education with all the reinforcement you need to learn these valuable skills with confidence.

Question 4

What skills or experience do I need to already have before starting to learn reinforcement learning?

Accepted Answer

Because reinforcement learning itself isn't a beginner-level subject, you'll need to have a good grasp on the fundamentals of machine learning before starting to learn it. Additionally, many courses will require you to have a strong background in high-level mathematics such as linear algebra, statistics, and probability. Most courses will require you to be proficient in Python, although people familiar with other programming languages like C++, Matlab, and JavaScript can often use those skills to help them learn reinforcement learning. Having the ability to implement algorithms from pseudocode may be another prerequisite. As you progress, you'll gain skills in using reinforcement learning solutions to solve problems with probabilistic artificial intelligence, function approximation, and intelligent systems.

Question 5

What kind of people are best suited for roles in reinforcement learning?

Accepted Answer

People best suited to roles within the reinforcement learning realm should have a passion for machine learning with a drive for analytics and data and an interest in providing frontline support to solve real-world problems while leveraging innate creative problem-solving skills. Additionally, many companies like to see that candidates have strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across disciplines and departments. There are a variety of roles associated with reinforcement learning, including analysts, engineers, and researchers. In late February 2021, there were more than 1,800 job listings for people proficient in reinforcement learning on LinkedIn.

Question 6

How do I know if learning reinforcement learning is right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you want to be a part of the future of machine learning, learning reinforcement learning may be a good move for you. This innovative machine learning technique creates an algorithm that learns through trial and error, leading to a combination of short- and long-term rewards such as the ability to define sequences to solve problems using a reward-based learning approach. It's useful across multiple industries, including the tech industry, business, advertising, finance, and e-commerce, all of which find reinforcement learning useful in part because of its ability to offer greater personalization. Ultimately, if you want to work within AI and machine learning, this could be a step to advancing your goals.

Question 7

What are the benefits of taking an online Reinforcement Learning course?

Accepted Answer

Online Reinforcement Learning courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Reinforcement Learning skills. Choose from a wide range of Reinforcement Learning courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

Question 8

What Reinforcement Learning courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

Accepted Answer

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Reinforcement Learning, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.

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Explore the Reinforcement Learning Course Catalog

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Frequently Asked Questions about Reinforcement Learning

What is reinforcement learning, and why is it important to learn about?‎

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in reinforcement learning?‎

Can I learn about reinforcement learning by taking online courses on Coursera?‎

What skills or experience do I need to already have before starting to learn reinforcement learning?‎

What kind of people are best suited for roles in reinforcement learning?‎

How do I know if learning reinforcement learning is right for me?‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Reinforcement Learning course?‎

What Reinforcement Learning courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?‎

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