Computational modeling of observational learning inspired by the cortical underpinnings of human and monkey primates

Abstract

I would also like to sincerely thank the members of my advisory committee, Assoc. Prof. Antonis Argyros, and Prof. Eleni Savaki, for their support and useful suggestions throughout the course of this thesis. Sincere thanks to Assist. Prof. Yiannis Demiris, Assist. Prof. Vasilios Raos, Prof. Michael Zervakis, and Prof. Michael Vrahatis for participating in the examination committee of this thesis.My deep appreciation also goes to the Foundation for Research and Technology -Hellas (FORTH) and the University of Crete, where the current thesis was conducted, for providing an excellent and stimulating environment to carry out my research. FORTH has also provided financial support which is gratefully acknowledged.Many thanks are also due to my colleges at the Computational Vision and Robotics Laboratory (CVRL) for the friendly atmosphere, interesting discussions and all the fun times we had. Special thanks go to Michail Maniadakis, whose support and discussions throughout this PhD were invaluable. I also want to thank my late father, whose role model of a hard-working and sincere person has given me all the necessary provisions to face life. Even though I miss him, I know that he will always be there in my heart to guide me. A deep thanks to my mother and my two sisters for their support and patience throughout the rough times of this PhD. They have always been there by my side and, even more importantly, they will always be.Last, but certainly not least, I would like to thank all my good friends and especially my brotherhood friend Mihalis Mpeladakis and my pals Kostis Igoumenakis and Markos Sigalas, who supported me all these years in many different ways. Most importantly, because they were always there for me when I needed them.