Welcome to IML/MLDM FS 2026

This repository contains lab exercises, datasets, and Jupyter notebooks for the Introduction to Machine Learning (IML) course at ZHAW for the Spring Semester 2026. Each weekly folder includes hands-on exercises designed to reinforce theoretical concepts covered in lectures.

Course Structure

• Week 1: Data Cleaning, Regression, and Classification

  • Data preprocessing and cleaning techniques
  • Introduction to regression and classification models
  • Hands-on exercises with real datasets
  • 

• Week 2: Linear Regression

  • Linear regression theory and implementation
  • Model evaluation and performance metrics
  • Practical exercises with scikit-learn
  • 

• Week 3: Gradient Descent and Polynomial Regression

  • Gradient descent optimization algorithms
  • Polynomial regression and feature engineering
  • Overfitting and regularization
  • 

• Week 4: Logistic Regression

  • Logistic regression for binary classification
  • Sigmoid function and decision boundaries
  • Classification metrics and evaluation
  • 

• Week 5: Supervised Learning and Hyperparameter Tuning

  • Supervised learning fundamentals
  • Hyperparameter tuning techniques
  • Learning curves and model diagnostics
  • 

• Week 6: Neural Networks

  • Neural network fundamentals
  • Multi-layer perceptrons and deep learning
  • Softmax activation and backpropagation
  • [

• Week 7: Training Neural Networks

  • Backpropagation algorithm and gradient computation
  • Optimization techniques for neural network training
  • Regularization and training strategies
  • [

How to use Google Colab

1. Direct Link Method:
   • Use this URL pattern: https://colab.research.google.com/github/zhaw-physical-ai/IML_FS26/blob/main/[path-to-notebook]
   • Example: Open Week 1 Data Cleaning in Colab
2. Manual Method:
   • Go to Google Colab
   • Click on "GitHub" tab
   • Enter the repository URL: https://github.com/zhaw-physical-ai/IML_FS26
   • Select the desired notebook
3. Upload Data Files:
   • Use the files panel on the left sidebar in Colab
   • Upload the required CSV files from the corresponding week folder
   • Or mount your Google Drive if you've stored the files there
4. Run the Cells: Execute cells sequentially using Shift+Enter or the play button

Questions?

Write to penq@zhaw.ch