There's lots of methods for getting your seeds to pop, many of which are thoroughly explained here on the forums. Here's some links to get you started: Germination 420 Grandpa's Grow Guide Read Before Posting (checkout Point 5)
I always leave mine in the dark (becaue they are in soil). That is really the way nature intended it. But I don't really think it matters all that much. Moisture and temperature are the main keys. Good luck.
If you ask me, germination isn't really necessary. Just planting the seeds in moist warm soil does the trick for me everytime. If it's good enough for nature it's good enough for me. Good luck. P.S. I know I am still germinating the seeds in the soil. I just meant using a method like paper towels to do it.
I havent germed that many seeds, but I started out putting them in a glass of water in a dark warm spot, and now I just insert them into the soil... the germ rate seems to be the same.