This research explores the concepts of collaborative learning. Introduces an innovative online learning model which will lead students to participate effectively in a new collaborative online learning environment, developing skills by doing and interacting with online simulations and self- assessments, and developing knowledge by participating actively in discussions with tutors and peer-students. Once this learning model takes place and students and tutors get engaged in the ideal collaborative online learning environment using different communication mechanisms available in the Virtual Learning Environment of the course, further analysis will take place to assess the usability of asynchronous communication mechanisms used within that learning environment. According to all the issues presented in this piece of work, we can argue that in order to provide an effective collaborative virtual learning environment, the learning model should follow not only a consistent educational model, which encourages and promote collaboration and skills and knowledge development but also takes into account the users/learners experience during the design process.