Exploring the parallels between the ‘Three-Stage Microcosm’ approach and L1 language development: A case study of The Simpsons

This study examines how EFL college students learn English through a ‘Three-Stage Microcosm’: entering the world’s structure, participating in daily routines, and sharing emotional moments. Five non-English-major undergraduates with lower-intermediate proficiency participated in a three-month case study. The Simpsons (season 36, episode 1) was used to provide participants a microcosm. Results showed that in Stage 1, all students successfully entered the microcosm. In Stage 2, two students clearly engaged in routines, two showed partial success, and one failed. In Stage 3, three students demonstrated emotional immersion, one was ambiguous, and one failed. All participants showed awareness of the fictional world. These findings suggest the three-stage microcosm approach offers an alternative pathway for meaningful L2 development.