CSCI 1520: Algorithmic Aspects of Machine Learning (Spring 2025)

Basic Information

Course Description

In this course, we will explore the theoretical foundations of machine learning and deep learning, with a focus on the design and analysis of learning algorithms with provable guarantees. Throughout the course, we will (1) discuss data mining and machine learning algorithms for analyzing very large amounts of data, (2) investigate why simple algorithms can solve machine learning problems that are computationally hard in the worst case, and (3) understand the success of deep learning by studying the emerging theory of deep learning. Example topics include locality-sensitive hashing, streaming algorithms, local graph algorithms, non-negative matrix factorization, non-convex optimization, and over-parameterization and implicit bias in deep learning. Prior knowledge of linear algebra, algorithms and data structures, probability, and statistics is recommended.

Assignments

Schedule

Grading

Academic Integrity

Academic achievement is evaluated on the basis of work that a student produces independently. A student who obtains credit for work, words, or ideas which are not the products of his or her own effort is dishonest. Such dishonesty undermines the integrity of academic standards of the University. Infringement of the Academic Code entails penalties ranging from reprimand to suspension, dismissal or expulsion from the University. Students who have questions on any aspect of the Academic Code should consult the instructor or one of the deans of the Graduate School to avoid the serious charge of academic dishonesty.

Disability Policies

Brown University is committed to full inclusion of all students. Any student with a documented disability is welcome to contact the instructor as early in the semester as possible so that reasonable accommodations can be arranged. If you need accommodations around online learning or in-classroom accommodations, please be sure to reach out to Student Accessibility Services (SAS) for their assistance (sas@brown.edu, 401-863-9588, Brown SAS Website). Students may also speak with Student Accessibility Services at 401-863-9588 to discuss the process for requesting accommodations.

Religious Holidays

Students who wish to observe their religious holidays shall inform the instructor within the first four weeks of the semester, unless the religious holiday is observed in the first four weeks. In such cases, the students shall notify the faculty member at least five days in advance of the date when he/she will be absent. The instructor shall make every reasonable effort to honor the request.