A shift in philosophy at the ED?

We think that ED Daily made a very interesting observation last week about an apparent major shift in ED policy from previous administrations. “… Duncan's tenure at ED signals a philosophical break from the department's past, as Duncan has said that he believes ED's role is a clearinghouse and catalyst for good ideas -- not a developer of them, nor an oracle of knowledge. In addition, Duncan has told Congress that he will set strict goals, such as higher standards, but permit states considerable leeway in meeting them…” what do you make of this? How might it affect the rold of education's knowledge industry?