Adaptive Strategy Selection for Concept Learning

In this paper, we explore the use of genetic algorithms (GAs) to construct a system called GABIL that continually learns and refines concept classification rules from its interac - tion with the environment. The performance of this system is compared with that of two other concept learners (NEWGEM and C4.5) on a suite of target concepts. From this comparison, we identify strategies responsible for the success of these concept learners. We then implement a subset of these strategies within GABIL to produce a multistrategy concept learner. Finally, this multistrategy concept learner is further enhanced by allowing the GAs to adaptively select the appropriate strategies. Key words: concept learning, genetic algorithms 1 Introduction An important requirement for both natural and artificial organisms is the ability to acquire concept classification rules from interactions with their environment. In this paper, we explore the use of an adaptive search technique, namely, genetic algorithms (..