Model-based Reinforcement Learning: A Survey

Foundations and Trends® in Machine Learning, vol. 16, pp. 1–118

Abstract

Sequential decision making, commonly formalized as Markov Decision Process (MDP) optimization, is an important challenge in artificial intelligence. Two key approaches to this problem are reinforcement learning (RL) and planning. This survey is an integration of both fields, better known as model-based reinforcement learning. Model-based RL has two main steps. First, we systematically cover approaches to dynamics model learning, including challenges like dealing with stochasticity, uncertainty, partial observability, and temporal abstraction. Second, we present a systematic categorization of planning-learning integration, including aspects like: where to start planning, what budgets to allocate to planning and real data collection, how to plan, and how to integrate planning in the learning and acting loop. After these two sections, we also discuss implicit model-based RL as an end-to-end alternative for model learning and planning, and we cover the potential benefits of model-based RL. Along the way, the survey also draws connections to several related RL fields, like hierarchical RL and transfer learning. Altogether, the survey presents a broad conceptual overview of the combination of planning and learning for MDP optimization.

Authors 4

1. Thomas M. Moerland Aachen

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   LIACS, Leiden University ,

   LIACS, Leiden University, The Netherlands

2. Joost Broekens Aachen

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   LIACS, Leiden University ,

   LIACS, Leiden University, The Netherlands

3. Aske Plaat Aachen

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   LIACS, Leiden University ,

   LIACS, Leiden University, The Netherlands

4. Catholijn M. Jonker Aachen Interactive Intelligence

   Leiden University · Delft University of Technology

   Affiliation as printed

   Interactive Intelligence, TU Delft ,

   LIACS, Leiden University ,

   Interactive Intelligence, TU Delft, and LIACS, Leiden University, The Netherlands