This global course aims to equip students with knowledge of East Asia security issues, intercultural understanding, and research skills. It also seeks to develop students’ advanced Japanese language proficiency, cultural humility, and intercultural communication (ICC) skills through a Content-Based Instruction (CBI) approach. Topics will focus on East Asian economy and security challenges and conflicts viewed through the lens of conflict transformation (CT). Working closely with international policy development experts and language specialists, students will examine a broad range of foreign policy, economic development, and security issues that present both opportunities and challenges for countries in the region and for the United States. Japanese technical terms and grammar featured in thematic readings and authentic multimedia materials will be taught and reinforced through class discussions and real-life study in Japan and China. After completing readings, designing interview and survey questions, and conducting field study and library research, students will create digital storytelling final deliverables. These projects may be presented at the Mini-Monterey Model event or the CT symposium at the end of the semester. An optional experiential learning trip to Japan and China during spring break (March 14-23, 2026) offers real-world engagement. Trip participants attend the pre-departure classes and final presentations; non-participants continue regular sessions on Mon/Wed.