This entry provides information on the emergence of developmental science globally. All science is now global, developmental science included. This rapid transition is largely due to technological advance in connectivity. Although broadband connectivity is still highly variable in availability and cost globally, the ubiquity of smartphones has expanded Wi-fi (the short name given to local area wireless computer networking technology) connections to many parts of the globe, especially urban areas. This connectivity enables communication through e-mail and text messages, and files can be easily shared through cloud computing (Internet-based storage). Global research collaborations have expanded rapidly, with no decrease in sight.

The availability of easier and cheaper communication and data sharing make all aspects of research collaboration more tractable, including availability of journal articles, collaborative data ...