What is ensemble learning in machine learning?

Ensemble learning is a technique in machine learning that involves combining multiple models to enhance overall performance and accuracy. This approach leverages the strengths of various algorithms by creating a composite model that can provide better predictions than any single model could achieve on its own.

By integrating the predictions from several models—often referred to as "base learners"—ensemble methods can reduce the risk of overfitting, improve generalization, and capture a wider array of patterns within the data. Common ensemble techniques include bagging, boosting, and stacking, each of which uses different strategies to aggregate the models' outputs.

The focus on combining various models is what distinguishes ensemble learning from methods that rely on single models or analyses from distinct systems. This multiplicity is key to achieving more robust machine learning applications.