Python, Machine Learning, and How it Affects the World

Written By Ethan Lem

Python is a programming language that allows for some of the most inexperienced programmers to pick up a language easily. Its syntax is simple and it gives basic implementation of key features that make programming a lot less rigorous. It’s used in web development, app development, IOT, and even Machine Learning; a powerful tool that allows for computers to process data and make decisions.

Machine learning has a wide array of applications including your daily entertainment. It uses algorithms that allow the code to examine, query, and modify data in order to get you the most impact for your needs.

Deep learning is a part of machine learning that uses a set up similar to the human brain in order to make more complex decisions with a level of abstractivity. There are 3 types of deep learning. Supervised; which is machine learning that looks at the patterns requested and follows a strict set of rules. Unsupervised, which is machine learning that examines any patterns that exist and uses them to complete its goal. This is less controlled and uses less rules than supervised machine learning. Reinforcement machine learning, the last type, can learn based on a rewards system. It goes towards its goal and uses any pattern it can find to reach that goal.

So why is python such a good language for machine learning? First of all, python’s simple syntax and readability allows for easy implementation of algorithms that would otherwise take a long time. Its readability means other collaborators can look at the work and understand it easily. It allows for simple work on complex topics. Python allows for use of libraries and frameworks that can add to your machine learning experience. Frameworks such as Tensorflow or libraries such as Pytorch allow for easy machine learning code that can be written for any project

So, now let’s go into why you should learn machine learning. It’s applications are almost endless. In fact, its use has even been put into finding treatment for covid19; the disease keeping us all at home. Professors and researchers at the University of Toronto and Ryerson University have stated that they are currently using machine learning in order to find molecules that can stick to the receptors of Covid and essentially neutralize it. This research is so important to the Covid19 relief as it needs to be done as fast as possible; so fast that standard techniques such as testing each molecule and doing years of research are not applicable. Machine learning’s fast adaptivity makes it one of the quickest methods for comparing medicines.

Other applications of machine learning are seen in everyday use. Virtual assistants such as Siri or Alexa use machine learning to predict what you are going to ask and to understand what you are saying translates too. Even GPS systems use machine learning to predict weather and road conditions. It also uses the data to predict the fastest route. Even social media uses machine learning to get follow recommendations or posts you might like. These are just a few examples of machine learnings applications that can be done through Python.

Now if you have recently attended the World of Devs Python course, you are well on your way to being able to start the basics of machine learning. Youtube and other resources may be able to teach you the basics of data structures and algorithms; the basics of machine learning. This is a great way to start learning the thought process to go about learning more complex ideas. Lastly, there are many courses on websites that can teach you the basics of Pytorch or Tensorflow. These are some great places to start on your journey with machine learning.