Model-Based Reinforcement Learning Under Confounding
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
- A recent study investigates model-based reinforcement learning in contextual Markov decision processes (C-MDPs) where unobserved contexts create confounding in offline datasets. The authors propose a proximal off-policy evaluation method that identifies confounded reward expectations using observable state-action-reward trajectories, leading to a surrogate MDP that is consistent for state-based policies.
- This development is significant as it addresses the inconsistency of conventional model-learning methods in reinforcement learning, which can hinder the evaluation of state-based policies. By adapting existing techniques, the research aims to enhance the reliability of reinforcement learning applications in complex environments.
- The findings contribute to ongoing discussions in the field regarding the robustness of reinforcement learning methods, particularly in the context of confounding variables. This aligns with broader trends in AI research focusing on improving reasoning capabilities in models, as seen in recent advancements in language models and multimodal systems.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
