A comparison of deep learning and machine learning, with a focus on in-depth examination

Mohammad Sakib Mahmood
11 min readJan 22, 2023

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Machine learning and deep learning are two crucial concepts within the vast field of artificial intelligence. Despite being commonly used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Machine learning and deep learning are both subsets of artificial intelligence, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart from each other. Machine learning focuses on creating algorithms that can learn from data and make predictions, while deep learning is a subset of machine learning that uses neural networks with multiple layers to analyze and understand data. In short, machine learning is a broader concept that encompasses deep learning and other techniques.

Today, I’m going to explore the similarities and differences between machine learning and deep learning. Machine learning is a method of teaching computers to learn from data, without being explicitly programmed. Deep learning, on the other hand, is a subset of machine learning that utilizes neural networks with multiple layers to analyze and understand complex data. Both approaches have their own unique strengths and weaknesses and are used in different applications. Let’s get started on understanding these concepts in more detail.

I will discuss:

  • What is the definition of artificial intelligence?
  • What is the concept of machine learning?
  • What is the meaning of deep learning?
  • Distinctions between machine learning and deep learning
  • Summarizing and future steps.

What is the definition of artificial intelligence?

Before delving further into the specific areas of machine learning and deep learning, it’s important to understand that they both fall under the umbrella of artificial intelligence (AI). In brief, AI is a field that employs computer science and extensive data sets to aid in problem-solving. There are various applications of AI currently in use, some of which I will examine now.

  • Image recognition
  • Image classification
  • Natural language processing
  • Speech recognition
  • Facial recognition
  • Optimized healthcare treatments
  • Computer vision

AI can be divided into two categories: weak AI and strong AI. Weak AI is used for specific functions such as self-driving cars and voice assistants like Alexa. Strong AI, on the other hand, is currently not in practical use but is an area of ongoing research, focusing on creating machines that possess human-like intelligence and consciousness, with the ability to learn, plan and problem-solve.

What is the concept of machine learning?

The subfield of artificial intelligence known as machine learning involves using algorithms to analyze data, gain knowledge from it, and make decisions without human input or pre-programming in order to improve the capabilities of computers.

To initiate the procedure, training data is input into computers. The computers utilize this information to gain knowledge on how to handle similar data in the future. Once the models are set, computers are able to process new data independently. As time goes on, the computer may become proficient in identifying data that is not labeled.

Class of Machine Learning

Types of machine learning include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Supervised learning is where the model is trained on a labeled dataset, and the goal is to predict the output based on the input features. Unsupervised learning is where the model is not given any labeled data and instead must find patterns or relationships in the input data. Semi-supervised learning is a combination of supervised and unsupervised learning, where the model is given some labeled data and some unlabeled data. Reinforcement learning is where the model learns through trial and error, receiving rewards or punishments for certain actions. Each type of machine learning has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which to use depends on the specific problem and dataset at hand.The field of machine learning is a vast and complex one, but it can be broken down into three subsets for ease of understanding. These subsets are supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Each subset has its own unique characteristics and applications, and by delving deeper into each one, we can gain a better understanding of the overall field of machine learning.

Supervised learning

Supervised learning is a subset of machine learning that uses labeled datasets to train algorithms. The goal of this method is to train these algorithms to independently classify data and accurately predict outcomes. One very practical application of supervised learning is spam detection in your mail inbox. This process involves training an algorithm on a dataset of labeled emails, with some labeled as spam and others labeled as not spam. Once the algorithm is trained, it can then be applied to new emails in your inbox to accurately identify and filter out unwanted spam messages.

Supervised learning is a method of machine learning that is used to solve two types of problems: regression and classification. Regression is a type of problem where the output variables are real values, such as someone’s age or weight. The main model used for these problems is linear regression, which is a simple and efficient method for predicting continuous values. On the other hand, classification is a type of problem where the output variables are categories, such as “mammal” or “amphibian”. The main models used for these problems are decision trees, logistic regression, and random forests, which are powerful tools for categorizing data and making predictions. These models are able to handle complex and non-linear relationships, making them well-suited for a wide range of applications.

Unsupervised learning

Unsupervised learning is a type of machine learning that utilizes algorithms to analyze and cluster unlabeled datasets. These algorithms help to uncover hidden patterns or groups of data within the dataset. One popular application of unsupervised learning is image recognition. There are several different types of unsupervised learning models, including clustering, neural networks, anomaly detection, and more. These models can be used to identify trends and patterns in data that may not be immediately obvious.

Reinforcement learning

Reinforcement learning is a powerful tool for training models to make a sequence of decisions. The process is similar to a trial-and-error game, where the machine is given rewards or penalties based on its actions. The ultimate goal is for the machine to learn how to maximize rewards. One real-world example of this is Facebook’s Horizon, which utilizes reinforcement learning to personalize suggestions and deliver more meaningful notifications to users. With this approach, Facebook is able to provide a more personalized and enjoyable experience for its users.

What is the meaning of deep learning?

Deep learning is a subset of machine learning that has emerged as a powerful tool for solving complex problems. It is an evolution of machine learning, taking it to a whole new level by utilizing neural networks with multiple layers to process and analyze vast amounts of data. This allows for a greater level of accuracy and precision, making it a valuable tool in industries such as healthcare, finance, and transportation. Essentially, deep learning is like a deeper form of machine learning that allows for more intricate and accurate predictions and decisions.

Deep learning models are designed to mimic the way humans think and make decisions by analyzing data with a similar logical structure. These models are modeled after the human brain and use algorithms to create an artificial neural network (ANN) that can learn and make decisions on its own. This design makes deep learning models more capable than standard machine learning models as they are able to pass data between nodes that mimic neurons, allowing for a more complex and accurate analysis of the data. Deep learning systems are known to require large datasets in order to function effectively, but once they have access to the necessary data, they can produce immediate results. The need for human intervention is also minimal once the system is set up. A significant advancement in the field of deep learning is the concept of transfer learning, where pre-trained models are utilized. These pre-trained models help to meet the requirement for large training datasets, making deep learning more accessible and efficient.

Now let’s look at some real-world applications of deep learning algorithms.

Deep learning algorithms

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs)

This is a type of neural network that has multiple layers. These layers analyze and extract features from data, allowing for a more detailed and nuanced understanding of the information being processed. CNNs, or convolutional neural networks, are mainly used for computer vision, image processing, and object detection. They are particularly effective in tasks such as image classification and object recognition, making them a powerful tool in a variety of industries.

Recurrent neural networks (RNNs)

RNNs are a type of neural network that are particularly useful for dealing with sequential or time-series data. These types of data have an inherent order, or ordinality, that traditional neural networks are not well-suited to handle. RNNs use training data to learn how to process this type of data, making them ideal for a wide range of ordinal or temporal problems. Some common use cases of RNNs include things like Google Translate, which uses sequential data to translate text from one language to another, image captioning, which uses time-series data to generate captions for images, and Siri, which uses sequential data to understand and respond to spoken commands.

Autoencoder

Autoencoders are a powerful tool for representation learning that utilize neural networks. They work by replicating data from the input layer to the output layer, which allows them to be used for a variety of unsupervised learning problems. These applications include image processing and pharmaceutical research, where they are able to extract important features and patterns from data sets.

Key contrasts between AI and Deep learning

Machine learning and deep learning are both subfields of artificial intelligence that involve the use of algorithms to learn from data. However, there are key differences between the two. Machine learning focuses on the development of algorithms that can learn from data and make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed. These algorithms are generally shallow, meaning they consist of only a few layers. On the other hand, deep learning is a type of machine learning that uses neural networks with many layers, called deep neural networks. These networks are designed to automatically and adaptively learn representations of data, allowing for more accurate predictions and classifications. Additionally, deep learning is particularly well-suited for tasks that involve image, speech, or natural language processing.

We learned that deep learning is a subset of machine learning, and both types of learning are subfields of artificial intelligence. Many say that deep learning is machine learning, but while the two are closely related, they have their differences. In deep learning, the algorithms are designed to learn from data in a hierarchical manner, whereas in machine learning, the algorithms are designed to learn from data in a more general way. Despite these differences, both deep learning and machine learning are powerful tools for solving complex problems and are integral parts of the field of artificial intelligence.

  • Human interference: While machine learning models are constantly improving and becoming more efficient at their specified tasks, they still require human guidance and input to function properly. On the other hand, deep learning algorithms use their neural networks for decision-making and analysis, allowing them to function more independently and make decisions based on the data they have been trained on. Despite the advancements in deep learning, it is important to note that both machine learning and deep learning still require human oversight to ensure they are functioning correctly and making accurate decisions.
  • Complexity: While both machine learning and deep learning are complex systems, machine learning algorithms have simpler structures, like decision trees or linear regression. These structures are easy to understand and can be applied to various types of problems. On the other hand, deep learning is modeled after the human brain, which is much more complex and interconnected. The structure of the artificial neural network (ANN) in deep learning is much more intricate and requires more data to train. This complexity allows deep learning to tackle more complex problems and achieve better results.
  • Algorithmic differences:Machine learning algorithms are the backbone of data science and analytics, allowing data scientists and analysts to analyze and understand large amounts of data. These algorithms are designed to detect patterns and relationships within data sets, making it possible to identify trends and make predictions about future behavior. On the other hand, deep learning algorithms take this process a step further by being mainly self-depicted. These advanced algorithms are able to analyze and interpret data on their own, without the need for human input or oversight. This allows for even greater accuracy and precision in data analysis, and has the potential to revolutionize industries from healthcare to finance.
  • Data representation: Machine learning algorithms are designed to work with structured data, meaning data that is organized in a specific way and can be easily processed by the algorithm. This data can include things like numbers, text, and images. On the other hand, deep learning algorithms rely on layers of artificial neural networks to process and analyze data. These neural networks are modeled after the human brain and are able to process unstructured data, such as images, videos, and audio. This makes deep learning algorithms particularly useful for tasks such as image and speech recognition.
  • Scalability: Machine learning is a powerful tool for solving a wide range of problems, but it does have its limitations. One of the main challenges with machine learning is that it is not as well-suited for solving complex problems with large datasets. This is where deep learning comes in. Deep learning is a type of machine learning that is specifically designed to handle large datasets and complex problems. With its advanced algorithms and neural networks, deep learning is able to analyze and process large amounts of data, making it a powerful tool for solving complex problems.

Conclusion and next actions

It’s common to mix up machine learning with deep learning and vice versa. These two types of learning fall under the broad category of artificial intelligence, and they’re very closely related. However, there are some key differences between the two. Machine learning is a method of teaching computers to learn from data, without being explicitly programmed. Deep learning, on the other hand, is a specific type of machine learning that uses neural networks with multiple layers to analyze and interpret data. While both machine learning and deep learning are used to enable computers to learn and make decisions, deep learning is considered to be more advanced and is often used for tasks such as image and speech recognition. If we were to give you some key takeaways from this article, we want you to remember that deep learning is a type of machine learning. The goal of machine learning is to optimize computers to think and act with less human interference. This means that the computer is able to learn from data inputs, and make decisions based on that information. The goal of deep learning is to optimize computers to think and act using structures based on the human brain. This is done by creating neural networks that mimic the way the human brain processes information. This allows for even more advanced decision making and problem-solving capabilities in computers.

Both machine learning and deep learning are in-demand skills that are constantly evolving and expanding. As technology advances, these skills will become even more valuable in the job market. By investing more time into learning and mastering these topics, you will be putting yourself ahead of the curve and positioning yourself as a valuable asset to any company. However, it is important to note that there is still so much more to learn and explore within the field of machine learning and deep learning, such as new algorithms and techniques that are constantly being developed. It is a field that requires continuous learning and growth, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Gradient descent is a widely used optimization algorithm in machine learning, commonly used in training neural networks. Activation functions, such as sigmoid and ReLU, play a crucial role in determining the output of a neural network. Generative adversarial networks, or GANs, are a type of deep learning model that can generate new, previously unseen data. These are just a few examples of the many different techniques and concepts used in machine learning, and there is always more to learn and explore.

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Mohammad Sakib Mahmood
Mohammad Sakib Mahmood

Written by Mohammad Sakib Mahmood

Co-op Intern @Central Station Marketing, Euless TX & Graduate Student @Missouri State University, USA.

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