The first time I saw this kind of thing was watching Notch on the Ludum Dare challenge. I don't really see it as a way to learn much about programming, it's more entertaining and a fascinating insight into how other people work.
For example, realising that other people find listening to trance music also helps them code. Or finding out that other people use MS Paint as a level building tool. Or perhaps discovering that it's even possible to use MS Paint as a level building tool!
For example, realising that other people find listening to trance music also helps them code. Or finding out that other people use MS Paint as a level building tool. Or perhaps discovering that it's even possible to use MS Paint as a level building tool!