Neural-network front ends in unsupervised learning

Proposed is an idea of partial supervision realized in the form of a neural-network front end to the schemes of unsupervised learning (clustering). This neural network leads to an anisotropic nature of the induced feature space. The anisotropic property of the space provides us with some of its local deformation necessary to properly represent labeled data and enhance efficiency of the mechanisms of clustering to be exploited afterwards. The training of the network is completed based upon available labeled patterns-a referential form of the labeling gives rise to reinforcement learning. It is shown that the discussed approach is universal and can be utilized in conjunction with any clustering method. Experimental studies are concentrated on three main categories of unsupervised learning including FUZZY ISODATA, Kohonen self-organizing maps, and hierarchical clustering.