Compositional inductive biases in function learning.

TitleCompositional inductive biases in function learning.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2017
AuthorsSchulz, E, Tenenbaum, JB, Duvenaud, D, Speekenbrink, M, Gershman, SJ
JournalCogn Psychol
Volume99
Pagination44-79
Date Published2017 Dec
ISSN1095-5623
Abstract

How do people recognize and learn about complex functional structure? Taking inspiration from other areas of cognitive science, we propose that this is achieved by harnessing compositionality: complex structure is decomposed into simpler building blocks. We formalize this idea within the framework of Bayesian regression using a grammar over Gaussian process kernels, and compare this approach with other structure learning approaches. Participants consistently chose compositional (over non-compositional) extrapolations and interpolations of functions. Experiments designed to elicit priors over functional patterns revealed an inductive bias for compositional structure. Compositional functions were perceived as subjectively more predictable than non-compositional functions, and exhibited other signatures of predictability, such as enhanced memorability and reduced numerosity. Taken together, these results support the view that the human intuitive theory of functions is inherently compositional.

URLhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0010028517301743?via%3Dihub
DOI10.1016/j.cogpsych.2017.11.002
Alternate JournalCogn Psychol
PubMed ID29154187

Research Area: 

CBMM Relationship: 

  • CBMM Funded