Final answer:
The term "information skills" was first used by Paul Zurkowski in the early 1970s, highlighting the importance of critically evaluating and effectively using information sources.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the early 1970s, the term "information skills" was first used by Paul Zurkowski, who was the president of the Information Industry Association at the time. Zurkowski emphasized the importance of individuals being able to use a variety of information sources effectively and to be able to evaluate the credibility and quality of the information obtained. Critical evaluation of information sources includes assessing the author's credentials, identifying potential biases, and distinguishing between individual opinions and peer-reviewed research. The ability to critically analyze and effectively utilize information is now considered a key component of information literacy.