What is reinforcement learning? An AI researcher explains a key method of teaching machines – and how it relates to training your dog

Training an AI system and training a dog have a basic principle in common. Westend61 via Getty Images

Understanding intelligence and creating intelligent machines are grand scientific challenges of our times. The ability to learn from experience is a cornerstone of intelligence for machines and living beings alike.

In a remarkably prescient 1948 report, Alan Turing – the father of modern computer science – proposed the construction of machines that display intelligent behavior. He also discussed the “education” of such machines “by means of rewards and punishments.”