Which core metadata component includes points of contact and reference systems?

The correct choice, focusing on contact details, emphasizes the importance of having information about the individuals or organizations associated with the data. Contact details in metadata typically include names, email addresses, phone numbers, and other relevant information that enables users to reach out to the data creators or responsible parties for inquiries, collaboration, or troubleshooting. This connectivity is imperative in ensuring proper data usage, enhancing accountability, and facilitating communication.

Furthermore, core metadata often includes a reference to systems or standards used, which can be part of broader contact information but not always explicitly identified as a separate component. Temporal information and author identification, while essential components of metadata, do not specifically pertain to contact details. Thus, focusing on contact details aligns directly with the core purpose of facilitating engagement and accessibility within the context of metadata.