A system and method for collecting data regarding operation of a robot using, at least in part, responses from a first operation model to an input of sensed data from a plurality of sensors. The collected data can be used to optimize the first operation model to generate a second operation model. While the first operation model is being optimized, a train data-driven model that utilizes an end-to-end learning approach can be generated that is based, at least in part, on the collected data. Both the second operation model and the train data-driven model can be evaluated, and, based on such evaluation, a determination can be made as to whether the train data-driven model is reliable. Moreover, based on a comparison of the models, one of the second operation model and the train data-driven model can be selected for validation, and if validated, used in the operation of the robot.