Using the modified k-mean algorithm with an improved teaching-learning-based optimization algorithm for feedforward neural network training

In this paper we proposed a novel procedure for training a feedforward neural network. The accuracy of artificial neural network outputs after determining the proper structure for each problem depends on choosing the appropriate method for determining the best weights, which is the appropriate training algorithm. If the training algorithm starts from a good starting point, it is several steps closer to achieving global optimization. In this paper, we present an optimization strategy for selecting the initial population and determining the optimal weights with the aim of minimizing neural network error. Teaching-learning-based optimization (TLBO) is a less parametric algorithm rather than other evolutionary algorithms, so it is easier to implement. We have improved this algorithm to increase efficiency and balance between global and local search. The improved teaching-learning-based optimization (ITLBO) algorithm has added the concept of neighborhood to the basic algorithm, which improves the ability of global search. Using an initial population that includes the best cluster centers after clustering with the modified k-mean algorithm also helps the algorithm to achieve global optimum. The results are promising, close to optimal, and better than other approach which we compared our proposed algorithm with them.