<p>A learning and recognition machine has a major classification section for classifying an input pattern into a plurality of category groups and calculating a group belongingness to each category group and a plurality of fine classification sections for calculating a similarity within each category group. The machine causes the plurality of fine classification sections to learn in a coordinated manner by reflecting the group belongingness of the input pattern to update of a weight factor implemented in the fine classification sections, thereby allowing a recognition rate of a pattern situated at the boundary of the category groups to be improved and an effective supplemental learning to be performed. <IMAGE></p>
