Assigning a digital project will disrupt your semester long course. To gauge student engagement and comfort level, consider periodic surveying.
Consider asking questions early and often that will check in on students' comfort level with the technology you are using. If you are asking students to do independent research in special collections, ask them if they have experienced any roadblocks. You may be able to facilitate or intervene so the student doesn't become overly frustrated.
You may also consider asking questions as part of the assignment to gauge how students engaged with the concepts and skills you asked them to develop:
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