Tongji University's Unconventional Approach to Transparency: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Publicly Releasing Non-Admission Lists

The college's decision to release the list has sparked a discussion about the balance between transparency and the potential impact on students' mental health. On one hand, the early release of the non-admission list allows students to know their results sooner, enabling them to utilize the valuable time window for readjusting their plans, whether it be applying to other colleges or exploring different academic pathways. This practice demonstrates the college's commitment to the students by providing them with timely information, thereby increasing transparency in the admission process.

On the other hand, from the perspective of the students, not being admitted can be a significant disappointment. Being publicly listed as "not admitted" can exacerbate this feeling, leading to increased psychological stress. The public nature of the non-admission list may heighten the sense of failure and disappointment among those who are not admitted. It's essential to strike a balance between transparency in the admission process and the potential negative psychological impact on students. While transparency is crucial for maintaining trust and fairness, it's equally important to consider the emotional well-being of the students.

This incident has led to a broader discussion about how educational institutions can balance transparency with sensitivity towards students' feelings and dignity. Perhaps a more humane approach would be to notify unsuccessful applicants through private means, such as phone calls or text messages, allowing them to learn of the outcome without the added pressure of public disclosure. By adopting such an approach, educational institutions can demonstrate their commitment to students' well-being while maintaining transparency and fairness in the admissions process. Ultimately, the key to successful management lies in finding a balance between information transparency and consideration for students' feelings, providing more personalized services that cater to their needs.