In Blackboard, you can add columns to the GradeCenter for things like participation or blue book exams, where no online submission is required.  You can do the same thing in Canvas, but the functionality is very different.

In Canvas, the Gradebook is a reflection of the things that happen elsewhere in the site. You can’t do much manipulation of the Gradebook tool.  Instead, you make changes to your assignments — the source of the Gradebook data.

When there’s a graded item that doesn’t require students to submit on Canvas, simply create a new Canvas assignment for that graded item.  In the options for submission type, you can select either “No Submission” or “On Paper.”  Canvas treats both of these options the same by creating a new column in the Gradebook but not providing students with any submission options.  The difference is just a label that clarifies what you expect from students.

In order to enter grades for these types of assignments, they must be published.  Therefore, it’s good practice to include information in the RCE instruction area of the assignment, clarifying that students will not submit anything through Canvas and explaining what they should do instead.

Resources

How do I create assignment columns for non-submission assignments in the Gradebook?

TL;DR

Create a gradebook column by adding a Canvas assignment with a submission type of “No Submission” or “On Paper.”