DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/TE7E-WE38

Defense Date

2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Mathematical Sciences

First Advisor

Dr. Hassan Sedaghat

Abstract

Problems in statistical analysis, economics, and many other disciplines often involve a trade-off between rewards and additional information that could yield higher future rewards. This thesis investigates such a trade-off, using a class of problems known as bandit problems. In these problems, a reward-seeking agent makes decisions based upon his beliefs about a parameter that controls rewards. While some choices may generate higher short-term rewards, other choices may provide information that allows the agent to learn about the parameter, thereby potentially increasing future rewards. Learning occurs if the agent's subjective beliefs about the parameter converge over time to the parameter's true value. However, depending upon the environment, learning may or may not be optimal, as in the end, the agent cares about maximizing rewards and not necessarily learning the true value of the underlying parameter.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

June 2008

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