NeuroCOLT

Neural Networks and Computational Learning Theory

 

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NeuroCOLT Technical Report NC-TR-96-006

Finite Sample Size Results for Robust Model Selection; Application to Neural Networks

Joel Ratsaby
Technion
Israel

Ronny Meir
Technion
Israel

Abstract
The problem of model selection in the face of finite sample size is considered within the framework of statistical decision theory.  Focusing on the special case of regression, we introduce a model selection criterion which is shown to be robust in the sense that, with high confidence, even for a finite sample size it selects the best model. Our derivation is based on uniform convergence methods, augmented by results from the theory of function approximation, which permit us to make definite probabilistic statements about the finite sample behavior. These results stand in contrast to classical approaches, which can only guarantee the asymptotic optimality of the choice. The criterion is demonstrated for the problem of model selection in feedforward neural networks.

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