"Thinking" Computers

Machine learning continues to make enormous strides as researchers refine computer processes to better simulate the functions of the brain. While large amounts of data can help supercomputers (such as IBM’s Watson) predict the most likely answer to a question, data mining alone cannot discern the meaning of a sentence. Machine learning is the key to helping computers actually develop strategies for solving problems.

This was recently demonstrated in a global competition of computer shogi (Japanese chess) programs and five professional shogi players where the computers took the five-game match with three wins, one loss and one draw. In designing these programs, computers processed records of previous shogi games to “learn” how to win. A project is now underway to test whether a computer can pass the Japanese nationwide college admission test by 2016 and the University of Tokyo entrance exam by 2021.