ANN-How They Learn

Artificial neural networks typically start out with randomized weights for all their neurons. This means that they don't "know" anything and must be trained to solve the particular problem for which they are intended. Broadly speaking, there are two methods for training an ANN, depending on the problem it must solve.

A self-organizing ANN (often called a Kohonen after its inventor) is exposed to large amounts of data and tends to discover patterns and relationships in that data. Researchers often use this type to analyze experimental data.

A back-propagation ANN, conversely, is trained by humans to perform specific tasks. During the training period, the teacher evaluates whether the ANN's output is correct. If it's correct, the neural weightings that produced that output are reinforced; if the output is incorrect, those weightings responsible are diminished. This type is most often used for cognitive research and for problem-solving applications.