Deep Learning and Cognition – 2-IKV-239a/22

The course introduces the field of a highly popular machine learning approach focused on deep learning in artificial neural networks. Aiming at master’s students with diverse backgrounds of bachelor’s studies (such as students of cognitive science), the course will guide them through different areas of DL, to highlight its successful applications. To better understand the mechanistic principles of DL models, the students will learn the basics about the underlying mathematical concepts of DL and will be shown a few simpler examples of functioning neural network models. Throughout the course, the discussions will also focus on virtues and vice of deep learning and its relation to human cognition.

The course is a part of Master Programme in Cognitive Science.


Course schedule

Type Day Time Room Lecturer
Lecture Tuesday 09:50 - 11:20 I-9 Igor Farkaš
Student presentation Tuesday 11:40 - 13:05 I-9 students

Syllabus

Date Topic References
(1)
19.09.
Introduction to human intelligence and artificial intelligence

♦ Korteling J.E. et al. (2021) Human- versus Artificial Intelligence. Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence, 4

(2)
26.09.
DL math in a nutshell


(3)
03.10.
Current hype in deep learning

♦ Perconti P., Plebe A. (2020) Deep learning and cognitive science. Cognition, 203

(4)
10.10.
Deep learning in computer vision

♦ Lindsay G.W. (2021) Convolutional Neural Networks as a Model of the Visual System: Past, Present, and Future. Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 33(10): 2017–2031

(5)
17.10.
Deep learning in natural language processing

♦ DeepLearning.AI (2023). A Complete Guide to Natural Language Processing.


(6)
24.10.
Deep learning for robotics Sünderhauf N, Brock O, Scheirer W, et al. (2018) The limits and potentials of deep learning for robotics. The International Journal of Robotics Research, 37(4-5), 405-420
(7)
31.10.
Deep reinforcement learning

♦ Arulkumaran K., Deisenroth M.P.,Brundage M., Bharath A.A. (2017) Brief Survey of Deep Reinforcement Learning. IEEE Signal Processing Magazine,


(8)
22.11.
Symbol grounding problem

♦ Steels L. (2008) The symbol grounding problem has been solved, so what’s next?. In: de Vega, Glenberg & Graesser (eds), Symbols and Embodiment: Debates on Meaning and Cognition, OUP, 223-244.
♦ Coradeschi S., Loutfi A., Wrede B. (2013) A short review of symbol grounding in robotic and intelligent systems. Künstliche Intelligenz, 27:129–136

(9)
29.11.
Unification attempts

♦ Louwerse M. (2010) Symbol interdependency in symbolic and embodied cognition. Topics in Cognitive Science, 1-30.
♦ Dove G. (2011) On the need for embodied and dis-embodied cognition. Frontiers in Psychology, 1:242

(10)
06.12.
Role(s) of language in cognition and thought

♦ Mirolli M., Parisi D. (2009) Towards a Vygotskyan cognitive robotics: The role of language as a cognitive tool. New Ideas in Psychology, doi:10.1016/j.newideapsych.2009.07.001
♦ Hendricks R. K., Boroditsky L. (2017). New Space–Time Metaphors Foster New Nonlinguistic Representations. Topics in Cognitive Science.

(11)
13.12.
Grounding abstract concepts. Summary.

♦Borghi A.M., Barca L., Binkofski F., Tummolini L. (2018) Varieties of abstract concepts: development, use and representation in the brain. Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B, 373: 20170121
♦ Pulvermüller F. (2018) The case of CAUSE: neurobiological mechanisms for grounding an abstract concept. Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B, 373: 20170129

(12)
TBD
Group presentations Prepare a 20-minute presentation of the chosen topic.

Grading

  • Weekly activity during the semester (40%). This includes weekly submitting inputs to the moderator and active participation during discussions.
  • Paper presentation and discussion moderation (30%). You will present a selected topic (one of the papers in the syllabus), collect by email the inputs (one question or a discussion point) from other students in advance (until Sunday, 20:00). The inputs should will sent to the moderator, with the subject "author" (use the first author's surname). The moderator organizes the questions for discussion that he/she will moderate in the class.
  • Final group presentation (30%). You will be organized in small groups (3-4 students) and will prepare a final presentation on the topic of your choice relevant for the course.
  • Overall grading (in %): A > 90, B > 80, C > 70, D > 60, E > 50, else Fx.

Attendance

You are expected to regularly attend the class. In case of absence, inform the teacher about the reason. Max. two absences are ok (i.e. without losing points).