We would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who took part in our inaugural survey.
What’s going on? The mystery of existence.
The mlverse originated from, which was inspired by the renowned R programming language. This name reflects its objective of seamless interoperability with the tidyverse, aiming for integration whenever possible, as evident in our ongoing project that integrates tidymodels seamlessly. torch
While community structure may prioritize differing objectives, mlverse’s core purpose is likely distinct: enabling R users to accomplish tasks traditionally associated with other languages, such as Python.
As of now, significant advancements are being made in two primary areas: deep learning and distributed machine learning/automation. By its inherent nature, it is susceptible to modifying consumer goals and demands, allowing for flexibility in response. Which brings us to the main topic of discussion.
On that note, GitHub’s points and questions were valuable insights, yet what we truly required was a more straightforward approach. To better understand how our customers utilize the software, we sought a means of gathering insights into their experiences with it. We aimed to identify areas that could be enhanced or modified to meet specific needs and desires, as well as uncover gaps in functionality that would leave users wanting more. To bring our initiative to a successful close, we crafted a comprehensive survey. The third section of the survey explored how respondents perceived the moral and social implications of AI applications in real-world contexts.
Just a few issues upfront:
The anonymous survey design omitted both personal identifiers like email addresses and any information that could potentially reveal respondents’ identities, such as gender or geographical location. Similarly, we had disabled a range of IP addresses as intended.
Similarly, just as GitHub’s points can exhibit a skewed pattern, so too do the respondents in this survey have to display one. Important venues for promoting your work have included Twitter, LinkedIn, and the RStudio Neighborhood. On our initial attempt at this project, under intense time pressure, not all aspects were refined to precision – neither in terms of phrasing nor logistics. Despite the initial reservations, we were delighted to receive an abundance of innovative, practical, and occasionally highly detailed responses – and next time, our classes will be thoroughly discovered!
Thirdly, with non-compulsory questions, the number of legitimate solutions varies significantly between queries. By eliminating the need to categorize “irrelevant” topics, participants were able to focus more meaningfully on matters that resonated with them.
Most questions allow for a multitude of potential solutions.
We ultimately achieved a total of 138 completed surveys. Thank you again to everyone who contributed, with special appreciation going to those who took the time to thoughtfully respond to the numerous open-ended questions.
Areas and purposes
What drove our initial inquiry was a desire to identify the settings and applications where deep-learning software is being utilized.
Seventy-two individuals reported applying digital learning to their work, with the largest groups being those in the trade sector (72%), followed closely by academics (32%), researchers (29%), and those utilizing DL during spare time (60%). Meanwhile, 33% expressed a desire to utilize digital learning, but have not yet done so.
More than 20 respondents working with data lakes indicated that their primary fields of work were concentrated in consulting, finance, and healthcare industries. Industries such as IT, schooling, retail, pharma, and transportation have been frequently discussed over ten times.
Academic disciplines where dominant fields emerged, as reported by survey participants, were bioinformatics, genomics, and information technology, with significant adoption in biology, pharmaceuticals, pharmacology, and the social sciences.
Which technology domains resonate with distinct subsets of our customer base? Almost all 100 of the 138 respondents revealed that they employed Deep Learning in various image-processing applications, including classification, segmentation, and object detection. Following that was the application of time-series forecasting techniques, which seamlessly integrated with unsupervised learning methodologies.
Recognition of unsupervised deep learning unfolded unexpectedly; had we foreseen this milestone, we may have negotiated additional resources on the spot. Are you among those who opted in, or did you decide not to participate but still utilize DL for self-directed learning? We’d love to hear more about your experience in the comments!
NLP’s performance remained consistent, subsequently building upon its prior success in applications involving tabular data and anomaly detection, as it integrated with DL. Recent advancements in Bayesian deep learning, reinforcement learning, advice systems, and audio processing have garnered consistent attention.
Frameworks and abilities
We also inquired about the frameworks and programming languages that contributors were using for deep learning, as well as their plans for future utilization. Single-time mentions (e.g., deeplearning4j) typically remain unitalicized.
A crucial consideration for software developers and content creators alike is understanding the proficiency levels and varying ranges of experience within their target audience. It’s obvious that experience can be vastly distinct from one person to another. I would caution against over-interpreting these results, instead opting for a more nuanced approach to their implications.
While initial assessments of R skills appear plausible, I would have predicted a slightly varied outcome in deep learning applications. Based on various sources, including GitHub metrics, I’m led to suspect that the data may exhibit a more pronounced bimodal distribution – a hypothesis supported by our current observations. We appear to have amassed a sizeable clientele with a basic understanding of digital learning. While aligning with my instinctual sense, I must acknowledge that the bimodality’s intrinsic nature – as opposed to, for instance, a Gaussian distribution – remains a crucial consideration.
Despite this, pattern measurement averages out, while pattern bias remains current.
Needs and ideas
Now, to the free-form questions. What are our aspirations for growth?
I will address the most prominent issues in terms of frequency of mention. For deep learning, that simplicity is strikingly straightforward.
“No Python”
The primary concern among survey respondents regarding deep learning may not actually relate to a preference between R and Python, but rather with the perceived superiority of one over the other when it comes to deep learning applications. The subject frequently takes various forms, with frustration often stemming from the arduous process of installing correct Python dependencies for TensorFlow and Keras, which can be challenging to navigate, especially in different settings. It further emerged with a palpable fervor for torch
which we are extremely confident about.
What are the specific areas of concern that need to be addressed in order to improve clarity?
TensorFlow, the popular Python framework, seamlessly integrates with R through specially designed packages, making it straightforward to leverage its capabilities. tensorflow
and keras
. With various Python libraries, objects are imported and readily available for use through reticulate
. Whereas tensorflow
supplies the low-level entry, keras
Provides idiomatic, easy-to-use abstractions that enable developers to focus on their code rather than worrying about complex dependency chains.
However, torch
A recent addition to the software program is an R port of PyTorch that directly interfaces with R, not relying on Python for execution. As the substitute, its R layer immediately engages with libtorch
The underlying C++ library that powers PyTorch. Utilizing advanced R packages with optimized performance, leveraging C++ implementations to expedite complex computations and streamline workflows.
This isn’t the time for debate, either. Here are just a few ideas, actually.
As of now, one respondent aptly noted that torch
Ecosystems don’t provide the same level of performance as TensorFlow, so there is a need to find alternative solutions in order to improve processing times? Your assistance is required to proceed further with the project. Why? As a result of torch
Isn’t it obvious that being much younger is just one factor, but the real driving force behind this situation is a complex web of systemic factors? With TensorFlow, we can easily process and analyze images by feeding them into the framework. tf
Object-oriented programming is an endless wellspring of potential, whether elegantly executed or not; still, it’s possible to leverage similar concepts and principles in both R and Python. Although R wrappers are nonexistent, a handful of blog posts – see, for instance, [1] or [2] – heavily rely on them.
Switching to the subject of tensorflow
As a professional editor, I would suggest rewriting the text as follows:
“When setting up Python dependencies, I’ve found that issues often stem from system-specific problems. Drawing on GitHub pointers and my own expertise, I’ve determined that such difficulties can be quite dependent on the underlying system.” On certain operating systems, problems tend to manifest more frequently, while low-control environments such as high-performance computing clusters can exacerbate issues to a concerning degree. Despite this, I must confess that whenever setup problems arise, they can prove extremely challenging to overcome.
tidymodels
integration
The second most frequently mentioned requirement was the desire for a more concise and focused presentation. tidymodels
integration. Right here, we wholeheartedly agree. As it stands now, there is no such thing as an automated method that can effectively accomplish this task. torch
Fashions are designed generically, yet tailored to specific model implementations as needed.
What drives growth in small businesses? tidymodels
-integrated torch
package deal. There’s more to come back for. When crafting a bundled offer within the realm of entrepreneurial endeavors, torch
Considering a comparable ecosystem? When confronting technical difficulties, torch
The group may be more than happy to lend a helping hand.
Documentation, examples, educating supplies
Thirdly, many respondents emphasized the need for additional documentation, such as examples and educational resources. Compared to other deep learning frameworks, the scenario is significantly different for TensorFlow. torch
.
The website boasts an extensive collection of guides, tutorials, and examples. Given the disparity in their life cycles, supplies tend to be scarce. Despite recent refinements, the revamped website now offers a comprehensive, four-part introduction tailored specifically for both newcomers in deep learning (DL) and experienced TensorFlow users eager to explore its capabilities? torch
. Following this practical introduction, an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into technical details lies in the discussion of.
Facts are best understood when the team is fully engaged and contributes their insights. Whenever you address even the most minute imperfection, take a moment to reflect on creating a concise explanation of the changes you made. As the customer base grows, future patrons will reap the benefits of earlier innovators, with many challenges having already been overcome.
While individual remnants may not be treated uniquely, when considered together, they share a common trait: each is an essential need that happens to exist.
The ambiguity of this statement must be clarified; therefore, I suggest rephrasing it as follows:
Establish an expanded Deep Learning (DL) community.
“Bigger developer group and ecosystem. RStudio’s tools are impressive, yet navigating a seamless workflow from R to Python has proven challenging.
We fully concur, and our primary goal is to create a more substantial collective unit. I appreciate the intention behind this phrase, but its clarity could be enhanced for a broader audience. Therefore, I suggest reformulating it to: In essence, frameworks serve as tools, with the true significance lying in how effectively they are leveraged to address pressing challenges.
Concrete needs embrace
-
Extra paper/mannequin implementations (resembling TabNet).
-
A range of amenities is provided for seamless knowledge reshaping and preprocessing, enabling the effortless transfer of data to formats compatible with advanced neural networks such as recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and one-dimensional convolutional networks (1D CNNs), all within a three-dimensional framework.
-
Probabilistic programming for
torch
(analogously to TensorFlow Likelihood). -
Based on conversational AI technologies?
torch
.
Across various phrasings, lies a vast expanse of pertinent concerns that require collective effort; none can accomplish this monumental task on their own. Here’s where we envision building a community of diverse individuals, each bringing their unique passion and expertise to contribute in ways that spark their enthusiasm and fulfill their needs.
Areas and purposes
In line with requests, Spark’s inquiries mirrored those surrounding deep studying.
According to the findings of this survey, as expected, Spark’s primary usage lies in the trade sector, with a notable proportion of respondents (n=39) reporting its application in this area. Among tutorial workers and college students combined, there are eight participants. Seventeen users had already utilized Spark in their free time, while an additional 34 expressed a need to utilize the tool at some point in the future.
Trade sectors reveal a consistent pattern, with finance, consulting, and healthcare consistently leading the way.
Survey respondents primarily utilize Spark to unlock exclusive rewards and redeem points for purchases. Data analyses focused on tabular insights and meticulous time-series accumulation drive key initiatives.
Frameworks and abilities
During in-depth analysis, we found it essential to understand the linguistic framework that underlies an individual’s ability to spark creativity. When examining the accompanying graph, one notices that R appears twice: initially in reference to sparklyr
, as soon as with SparkR
. What’s that about?
Each sparklyr
and SparkR
Are R interfaces for Apache Spark, each designed and constructed with distinct priorities and, accordingly, thought-provoking trade-offs?
The tidyverse’s appeal to data scientists lies in its seamless integration with familiar tools, allowing them to utilize their existing expertise in information manipulation through packages such as dplyr and tidyr. dplyr
, DBI
, tidyr
, or broom
.
Alternatively, dplyrSpark is a lightweight R binding for Apache Spark, bundled identically with the latter. For practitioners already familiar with Apache Spark, this wrapper offers a streamlined way to leverage various Spark capabilities from within the R environment.
Respondents’ self-assessed pricing of their skills in R and Spark revealed a noticeable disparity, with many perceiving themselves as more proficient in R-based practices than they are in theory-driven Spark applications for deep learning purposes? Despite this, an even greater degree of caution is warranted here than previously: the number of responses received was significantly lower.
Needs and ideas
Spark customers have been asked about potential enhancements that could improve their experience, as well as their long-held wishes.
Notably, clustering of solutions has been significantly less pronounced compared to the dense localisation observed in deep learning approaches. While some minor concerns arose with DL, the vast majority of issues are now concrete, technical, and rarely recurring.
It’s highly likely that this isn’t just a coincidence.
Trying again at how sparklyr
Since its inception in 2016, sparklyr has consistently served as a crucial connector, seamlessly integrating the Apache Spark ecosystem with a range of valuable R interfaces, frameworks, and utilities – most notably, the tidyverse.
Our customers’ creativity has consistently built upon this core concept, with many innovative solutions echoing the same tone and vision. This holds for instance for two options that are already accessible as of now. sparklyr
Here are the results:
1.4: Improved support for the Arrow serialization format enables seamless data integration across various platforms.
1.2: Enhanced Databricks Join capabilities facilitate efficient data combination and analysis. It additionally holds for tidymodels
Here is the rewritten text:
To enhance scalability, we desire seamless integration of machine learning models with a user-friendly R interface for defining custom Spark UDFs. Additionally, we seek out-of-core direct computations on Parquet data to accelerate processing and prolonged time-series functionality to extract valuable insights from large datasets.
We appreciate the input and will carefully weigh the potential outcomes in each situation. Generally, integrating sparklyr
With certain distinctive features, meticulous deliberation is essential when making alterations, as the potential for revisions can arise in multiple areas.sparklyr
; X; each sparklyr
possibly an existing feature (X) or a forthcoming extension. While this topic may seem straightforward now, further exploration is necessary to fully understand its implications.
To maximize returns, this likely requires the most thorough preparation for our next survey iteration. As a direct result of time constraints, several questions inadvertently became too suggestive, potentially inducing social-desirability bias.
Future attempts to recreate this scenario will be avoided, and inquiries in this space will likely take a significantly distinct form (more akin to hypothetical situations or ‘what-if’ stories) Despite initial skepticism, I was often surprised when people were pleasantly shocked by my mere. So perhaps this is the fundamental principle – while a select few outcomes could be compelling enough on their own!
Surprisingly, the most unexpected and unanticipated consequences are presented upfront, defying conventional expectations.
Will widespread adoption of artificial intelligence raise concerns over its social and political implications?
The inquiry response options were designed to eliminate any middle ground, presenting four alternatives. The labels within the graphic below exactly replicate these options.
This subsequent query deserves meticulous preservation for future publications, boasting an unparalleled richness of information that surpasses all other queries in this section.
As technology advances, do concerns about AI misuse overshadow hopes for its potential to positively transform our world?
On the scale from -100 indicating I am typically more pessimistic to +100 showing I am typically more optimistic, I would place the slider at a score of ? While the possibility of indecision existed, the likelihood of choosing a price around zero proved attractive; instead, we observe a distinct bimodal distribution.
Why fear, and what about
These questions are suspected of being overly prone to social-desirability bias. Individuals were asked to identify the purposes that made them nervous, as well as the reasons behind those anxieties. While allowing individuals to respond freely to each question may seem appealing, the approach can lead to inconsistent and unreliable results. A more effective method would be to provide a standard set of response options for each question, ensuring that all participants are evaluated on the same criteria. This approach promotes fairness, transparency, and comparability across responses. Although in each instance, the potential existed to explicitly acknowledge
The proliferation of AI-driven surveillance systems raises concerns about privacy violations and erosion of individual freedoms. Moreover, the potential for biases embedded in AI algorithms to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination is a pressing issue that warrants immediate attention. Additionally, the reliance on AI-driven job automation threatens to exacerbate income inequality and disrupt traditional employment structures.
If you’re anxious about potential abuse and detrimental effects, what specifically concerns you?
With this feature, users have the opportunity to submit supplementary concepts and concerns in an open-ended format. While a comprehensive list of all discussed topics is impractical to provide, recurring themes have emerged:
-
The deployment of AI to the ill-suited functions, by unqualified individuals, and at an alarming rate.
-
The “black box” phenomenon?
-
The reluctance to engage in conversations about ethics, both within artificial intelligence circles and broader societal contexts, is striking.
Though this topic was briefly discussed earlier, I would like to share an additional comment that didn’t align with any of the previously offered response options: AI being leveraged to construct social credit systems.
While learning an algorithm may seem like a necessary step to master it, this assumption can inadvertently force AI software to dictate our actions and undermine our ability to achieve good scores without direct instruction. What unsettles me is the prospect of an algorithm learning patterns from our behavior, extrapolating predictions about us without a direct correlation to our actions or choices.
This has grown into a lengthy piece of writing. Given the substantial time respondents devoted to responding to various questions, along with the richness of information in their free-form answers, it seemed only fair to delve deeper into these elements in the evaluation and report.
Thanks again to everyone who participated! We aim to establish this as a regular theme, and explore designing subsequent versions in a way that yields significantly more informative results.
Thanks for studying!