Reinforcement learning based search (RLS) algorithm in social networks

Social network analysis has an increasing growth as an academic field which overlaps with popular interest in social networks. Search for an expert is one of the most important issues of mining of social networks which is finding the right person with the suitable skills and knowledge. The RLS algorithm exploited Q-Learning and referrals to find experts in social network to search expert in social network. Comparison of RLS with Simple Search Algorithm, Referral Algorithm and SNPageRank shows increase in both precision and recall. RLS learns to find new experts as old experts substitute their role with new ones due to changes in social network environment.