Create a simple rubric and have students complete a self-assessment during your first-class session. Along the left side of your table list key skills or knowledge that will be developed over the course of the semester. Ask students to rate themselves using a scale like: No knowledge, Some knowledge, Extensive knowledge. Check out this example from a graduate course that was created electronically and used to measure confidence in research skills. You can collect these anonymously to get a sense of where the whole class is, or you can ask students to include their names, so you know how to differentiate support when needed. You can also consider administering the rubric at the end of the semester, so students can reflect on where they grew (and you can collect feedback to improve future courses!).