I agree with WattSaver, many will poo-poo the idea of simply, you know, letting the seed sprout in its growing medium, like its been use to for thousands of years... But, I don't care, I've seen great success from letting seeds emerge in their natural environment, and the only thing that can come of this ridiculous paper-towel myth is allowing light to damage the emerging roots, shocking the embryonic plant, and transfer oils from your fingers onto the roots as well, which can kill them quite easily.
If you simply want to see what seeds are worth growing or not, get some solo cups, plant your babies, water them in, and see what sprouts, and when. Choose your desired plants, gently transplant (and yes, this can be done with little to no shock if careful), and proceed. This is the most natural and least harmful process for growing these creatures. Doing anything else serves no benefit whatsoever and can only have negative consequences.