Methods and apparatus are provided for training a neural device having an artificial nervous system by modulating at least one training parameter during the training. One example method for training a neural device having an artificial nervous system generally includes observing the neural device in a training environment and modulating at least one training parameter based at least in part on the observing. For example, the training apparatus described herein may modify the neural device's internal learning mechanisms (e.g., spike rate, learning rate, neuromodulators, sensor sensitivity, etc.) and/or the training environment's stimuli (e.g., move a flame closer to the device, make the scene darker, etc.). In this manner, the speed with which the neural device is trained (i.e., the training rate) may be significantly increased compared to conventional neural device training systems.